Authorities reveal identities of overseas holiday murder victims

Disclaimer: This article contains distressing content and detailed descriptions of violence. Reader discretion is advised.

Holidays should be a comfortable escape from daily life.

One couple's holiday turned for the worst as their lives met an abrupt end during their escapade, sending shockwaves to the international community.


Just south of the Philippines' capital, Tagaytay's serene atmosphere was disrupted when the bodies of a couple and another family member were found lifeless, with bound hands and feet.

The identified victims of a horrifying murder case were Australian national James Fisk, 57, and his wife Lucita Barquin Cortez, 55.

Along with them was Cortez's daughter-in-law, Mary Jane Cortez, aged 30.


compressed-pexels-crime scene.jpeg
The Lake Hotel, situated a few hours away from the Philippines' capital, became a crime scene that shocked many. Image Credit: Pexels/Kat Wilcox


A hotel staff member discovered the grim scene during routine duty at approximately 1:35 pm local time.

Tagaytay's police force, led by Chief Charles Daven Capagcuan, hopped on to the case to piece together the events that led to this tragedy.

The assailants used electrical cords, shoelaces, and packing tape to restrain the victims, leaving questions about the suspect's motives.


While the motive remains a mystery, some of the victims' valuables, including mobile phones, were left untouched.

CCTV footage also revealed a suspect—described as a man wearing a black hoodie, maroon shorts, sneakers, and a rucksack—caught fleeing the scene.

This footage has become a crucial piece of evidence as the authorities work tirelessly to track down the individual responsible for this heinous crime.

The families involved, and international communities reeled from the news as authorities launched a search for the perpetrator.


The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed that they will provide consular assistance to the bereaved families.

A DFAT spokesperson also extended their deepest condolences to the affected families.

The gravity of the situation also affected Tagaytay locals.

'We are very sorry to our Australian friends,' Tagaytay mayor Abraham Tolentino said in a statement.

'We will resolve this as soon as possible.'

James Fisk's remains will be repatriated to Sydney. The Cortezes will be laid to rest in the Philippines.

The cooperation between the Philippine and Australian authorities highlighted the impact of this tragedy and united the two nations in a quest for justice.
Key Takeaways

  • An Australian couple was murdered at a hotel during a holiday in Tagaytay, Philippines.
  • The victims, James Fisk and his wife Lucita Barquin Cortez, along with Cortez's daughter-in-law, Mary Jane, were found with their hands and feet bound.
  • Investigations by the Tagaytay Police led to a search for a suspect caught leaving the victims' room on CCTV.
  • The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provided consular assistance to the deceased families, and Tagaytay mayor Abraham Tolentino assured families that the case would be resolved 'as soon as possible'.
May justice prevail for the victims.
 
Sponsored

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×