CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — A 22-year-old carpenter was found dead inside a woodshop in Barangay Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City, after allegedly slashing his own throat in what authorities believe may be a drug-induced episode marked by hallucinations and paranoia.
The victim was identified as Rubin Paninsoro, a stay-in carpenter from Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, who was temporarily residing in Agora, Lapasan. CCTV footage captured a disturbing scene at around 1:14 p.m. showing the victim inside the woodshop in Sitio Pinikitan, Demetrios Velez Street, where he reportedly cut his own neck.
According to his sibling, Paninsoro had been using illegal drugs, which allegedly caused him to experience frequent hallucinations and an intense belief that someone was chasing and trying to kill him. The family said his growing paranoia may have driven him to harm himself.
Workers later discovered Paninsoro lying on the floor of the shop, bleeding heavily from a deep wound on his neck. He was declared dead at the scene, and his body was subsequently brought to Bollozos Funeral Homes.
Police authorities have launched an investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to verify the role of illegal drugs in his death.
A Grim Reminder of the Dangers of Illegal Drugs
The tragic death of the young carpenter has once again cast a harsh spotlight on the devastating mental and psychological effects of illegal drug use, which can trigger hallucinations, extreme fear, and irrational behavior. Law enforcement officials warn that substance abuse does not only destroy the user’s health but can also lead to self-harm, violence, and irreversible loss of life.
Community leaders and anti-drug advocates urged the public, especially the youth, to seek help and support rather than turn to illegal substances, stressing that addiction is not just a personal struggle but a serious public safety and health issue.
Authorities continue to appeal to families and barangay officials to remain vigilant and to report individuals in distress so that timely intervention can prevent similar tragedies.
Police investigation is ongoing.