Manila, Philippines – The community of Singalong, Manila, is deeply concerned as 16-year-old Ma. Cecilia D. De Vicente has been missing since July 29, 2024. Ma. Cecilia, who was last seen wearing her school uniform—a white blouse and maroon skirt—was last spotted at Araullo High School on UN Avenue, Ermita, Manila, around noon.
The search for Ma. Cecilia has gained significant attention on social media, with numerous individuals sharing their thoughts and concerns on Facebook. Nelfa Dormitorio expressed the urgency of the situation, posting, "Oh, God! Why are there so many persons missing?" This sentiment has been echoed by many others in the community.
Mar Degrazz commented on the alarming trend of missing youths, saying, "Grabe na nangyayari sa mga kabataan, ang daming missing! What’s happening in our country? We need our officials to serve the Filipino people properly. The taxes we pay should be put to good use."
The situation has sparked various opinions, with some, like Sanay Ng Di Minahal, attributing the disappearances to youths leaving with friends or partners without informing their families. "Ang daming missing, tapos pag na hanap, ang dahilan sumama sa jowa. Tapos ang sisihin, ang gobyerno na naman," they remarked, highlighting the need for better communication between youths and their parents.
Calls for increased police patrols and surveillance have also been made. Norania Virtudazo Bajao Samporna suggested, "Kailangan ang mga pulis nag papatrol sa mga eskuwelahan, sa mall, sa market, sa plaza, sa mga importanteng lugar para matingnan ang paligid natin."
The Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippine Eagles, along with other community members, has been actively sharing Ma. Cecilia’s information, urging the public to assist in the search. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the family at 84017076 or reach out to the Barangay 746 Zone 81 District V Facebook page.
As the days pass, the community’s concern grows, and the search for Ma. Cecilia D. De Vicente continues. Many are hoping for her safe return and that authorities will take more proactive measures to address the rising number of missing persons in the area.