ANGELES CITY, Pampanga — February 17, 2026. The body of Maria Teresa “Tess” Mamac, widow of the late Barangay Balibago chairman Rodelio “Tony” Mamac, was discovered inside her family compound after several days of being reported missing.

Police confirmed that her remains were found buried about five feet underground near the piggery area of the property at around 5 p.m. on Monday.

Authorities said the discovery followed an intensive search after Mamac’s disappearance on February 12. CCTV footage from her residence reportedly captured a scream around 7:30 p.m. that evening, and she was last seen shortly before 9 p.m. riding a white Toyota Innova en route to Mabalacat City.

Her vehicle was later found abandoned at Magalang Plaza on Valentine’s Day, with her bag, wallet, mobile phone, and identification cards left inside.

Police Colonel Joselito Villarosa Jr., Angeles City police chief, confirmed that Mamac’s body will undergo autopsy to determine the cause of death. “The body will undergo an autopsy to find out the cause of death of Mamac,” Villarosa said. Investigators have since named the family’s longtime driver, Emmanuel Celeste Tolentino, also known as Manuel, as a person of interest.

The case has drawn widespread attention in Pampanga, with local officials and residents expressing shock over the tragic development. Pampanga 1st District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. earlier offered a ₱200,000 reward for any information that could help locate Mamac when she was still missing.

As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on tracking down Tolentino and piecing together the circumstances surrounding Mamac’s death. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the community, especially given Mamac’s prominence as the widow of a longtime barangay leader. Police assured the public that they are pursuing all leads to bring justice to the family.

Image from PNP