Skeletal remains discovered at historic Ilocos Norte church

Workers conducting renovation work at the historic Sta. Monica Catholic Church in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, uncovered suspected skeletal fragments Thursday afternoon, prompting police to secure the site for forensic and historical evaluation.

Rommel Lejarde, a construction foreman, reported the discovery to the Sarrat Municipal Police Station around 4 p.m.

Excavation at the church grounds began in mid-August as part of restoration efforts led by JS Lim Construction.

Workers uncovered the bone fragments buried beneath the soil during digging operations.

Police officers secured the area and instructed workers to leave the fragments undisturbed. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the remains are human, nor have they determined their age or origin.

The Ilocos Norte Provincial Forensic Unit is assisting local police in documenting and examining the fragments.

Because the Sta. Monica Catholic Church is roughly 300 years old, local authorities plan to coordinate with archaeological and historical agencies to evaluate the cultural or historical significance of the find.

An investigation into the origin of the remains is ongoing.