Sophia Marie Coquilla, a 19-year-old freshman journalism student at the University of the Philippines Diliman, was found brutally murdered in her home in Purok 3-A, La Filipina. She had been stabbed 38 times.
The incident, which occurred on July 9, is believed to be a robbery gone wrong. Sophia was alone at the time, and initial investigations indicate that suspects broke into her home, allegedly panicking and attacking her after she woke up and saw their faces.
Police arrested four suspects, including at least one minor, during follow-up operations. One suspect was apprehended in Davao City with an unlicensed firearm and items linked to the victim. CCTV footage from the vicinity helped identify those involved.
A 17-year-old suspect reportedly confessed, claiming he and another accomplice took turns stabbing Sophia. Authorities believe the suspects were under the influence of alcohol during the crime.
Davao del Norte police chief Colonel Alexander Serrano Jr confirmed that most of the suspects are underage. Under Philippine law, those under 15 are exempt from criminal liability, while individuals aged 15 to 18 may only be held accountable if proven to have acted with discernment.
Tagum police and forensic teams are continuing their investigation, while the nation mourns the tragic and senseless loss of a young woman with a promising future.
