Family of 12 reportedly attempts suicide after Cebu earthquake
Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of suicide.
A family of 12 in Cebu province reportedly engaged in self-harm, more than a week after a powerful quake rattled the province.
The Medellin Municipal Police Station said that they received a call from Gibitngil Barangay Captain Monina Monato, who requested assistance after several members of a Christian church began showing signs of severe mental distress, local outlet The Freeman reported.
Police chief PMAJ Manuel Cabanlit said they immediately responded along with personnel from the local government unit and the Municipal Social Welfare and Services Office.
When authorities arrived, all family members, including an eight-year-old child and a pregnant woman, were reportedly unable to communicate properly and appeared to be attempting suicide.
Police reported that Rene Barro, president of the family's religious group, claimed the family has not eaten since Oct. 1 due to trauma suffered in the recent earthquake.
The authorities also said that the family had thrown away food packs into the sea, with some family members expressing suicidal thoughts.
"The father reportedly attempted suicide. He had a small wound on his neck, but it was very minor. He was immediately brought by the DRRMO to the hospital. However, other family members were saying they would also take their own lives," said Cabanlit, as translated by the outlet.
The Rural Health Unit of Medellin, alongside a medical team from Manila, has conducted Psychological First Aid to prevent the affected family members from engaging in suicidal behavior.
The head of the family remains confined in the hospital for treatment. Janice Sumalinog of MSWSO said that it is not known yet if the family had any pre-existing problems.
Those experiencing mental distress have been provided with appropriate medical treatment.
According to psychologist Lucille Foja Lozano, a major disaster such as an earthquake can trigger overwhelming feelings of trauma, fear, and grief all at once.
"The sudden destruction of homes, loss of loved ones, or uncertainty about the future can create overwhelming feelings of hopelessness," she told PhilSTAR L!fe.
"In many cases, pre-existing mental health struggles such as depression or anxiety may worsen after such an event, while the loss of livelihood or financial security adds even more pressure. When social support systems are disrupted and access to help is limited, individuals may feel isolated and unable to cope," she added.
Lozano noted that mental health stigma in the Philippines can prevent survivors from seeking help, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts when trauma and hopelessness set in. "Isolation is an impact," she said.
She stressed that prioritizing mental health is just as important as rebuilding one's home.
"Start with the basics: eat, rest, and stay connected to your loved ones. Talking about your fears and experiences, instead of keeping them inside, helps lighten the emotional load. Simple things like keeping a routine, praying, practicing breathing exercises, or helping in the community can also give a sense of strength," she shared, adding that if suicidal thoughts persist, it's encouraged to seek professional help.
"Healing takes time, but no one should go through it alone," she said.
"This is a call for MH professionals to provide help in areas which had experienced disaster," she added.
The Cebu earthquake affected 189,620 families, killed 74, and recorded over 10,000 aftershocks as of Oct. 9.
If you or anyone you know is considering self-harm or suicide, you may call the National Mental Health Crisis hotline at 1553 (Luzon-wide, landline toll-free), 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-USAP (8727) for Globe/TM users, or 0908-639-2672 for Smart users.
If you or anyone you know needs help, you may call the Manila Police District hotline at 8523 3378, 0919-995-0976, 0917-899-2092.
