Zamboanga del Sur — Authorities and community leaders are raising serious concern as the province records its seventh suicide case this November, following the death of a 58-year-old mother who was found lifeless after taking her own life in Barangay Laperian, Tukuran.
The victim, identified as Virgilia Dalumpines, a mother of five, was discovered hanging from a marang tree in Purok 4B Mangga on November 13, 2025. Her family is still in deep shock as they struggle to understand the tragedy that unfolded just meters away from their home.
According to Ivy, the victim’s daughter-in-law, Dalumpines had long battled a lingering illness that caused her deep emotional distress. She revealed that the victim attempted suicide last year using a rope but was stopped in time. On the day of the incident, Ivy noticed her mother-in-law pacing restlessly but did not expect the situation to turn fatal.
The alarm was raised by a neighbor, identified as JR, who was gathering rubber resin when he noticed what he initially thought was someone collecting firewood. As he moved closer, he saw the victim already hanging and unresponsive, prompting him to call for help.
Family members shared that they had been doing everything they could to seek treatment for Dalumpines, who had been suffering for a long time, but her condition never improved.
Her remains are now at Paradise Funeral Homes in Ramon Magsaysay, Zamboanga del Sur.
A Disturbing Trend in the Province
Local authorities have confirmed that this incident marks the seventh recorded suicide case in Zamboanga del Sur this month alone, a deeply troubling figure that is prompting calls for urgent mental health intervention across municipalities.
Health officials warn that the rising cases point to a silent mental-health crisis—one that is compounded by chronic illness, poverty, personal struggles, and the lack of accessible psychological support in rural areas.
A Call for Stronger Community Response
As the province confronts this alarming trend, barangay leaders, mental health advocates, and local government units are urged to strengthen support systems, improve access to counseling, and encourage families to seek help at the earliest signs of distress.
For now, the Dalumpines family mourns the loss of a mother they describe as hardworking and loving, even as they struggle with the weight of the circumstances surrounding her death.
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, help is available. Reach out to your local health office or crisis hotline. You are not alone.