DAUIS, BOHOL — On Tuesday afternoon, January 27, 2026, traffic along the National Highway in Barangay Tabalong, Dauis appeared normal until several vehicles and motorcycles suddenly stopped. 

Motorists were alarmed to find a young child sitting alone by the roadside, wearing only a diaper and a shirt, with no shoes and no adult supervision. Witnesses said the child looked vulnerable and confused as cars passed by.

One rider immediately stopped, picked up the child, and handed the toddler to his companion, who tried to comfort and calm the child. Dashcam footage and videos uploaded on social media showed drivers halting their vehicles to ensure the child’s safety. “We were shocked to see a baby crawling near the highway. Some cars didn’t notice at first, which was very dangerous,” one motorist shared in a post that quickly went viral.

According to the uploader, the parents eventually arrived and took the child. Reports from local media indicated that the parents had allegedly quarreled earlier that day, which may have led to the child being left unattended. 

The Dauis Municipal Police Station and the local government unit have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances behind the incident and whether negligence charges should be filed. Authorities emphasized that leaving a child unsupervised in such a dangerous location could have resulted in a tragedy.

The incident has drawn widespread attention online, with netizens expressing outrage and concern. Many called for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and urged parents to prioritize their children’s welfare. Others praised the quick action of the motorists who stopped to rescue the child, saying their vigilance prevented a possible accident.

Local officials in Dauis assured the public that they are closely monitoring the case. Child welfare advocates also reminded parents that disputes should never compromise the safety of children. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is expected to coordinate with the Dauis LGU to assess the child’s situation and provide necessary support.

This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and responsible parenting. While the child was safely reunited with the parents, the investigation continues to uncover the real reason behind the incident. Authorities have urged the public to report similar cases immediately to prevent harm and ensure the protection of vulnerable children.

Image from Donna Adaptar