IMPASUG-ONG, Bukidnon — Authorities successfully rescued a 39-year-old man who attempted to take his own life by jumping off a bridge on Friday afternoon, marking the fifth suicide attempt recorded in the municipality since January 2026, raising growing concern among local officials.
The incident occurred at around 1:00 p.m. on March 20 at the Atugan Bridge in Barangay Impasug-ong. The individual, identified only by the alias “Binggo,” was rescued by members of the Revitalized Pulis Sa Barangay (RPSB) Impasugong Cluster in coordination with local government rescue personnel.
According to reports, the situation unfolded minutes earlier, at approximately 12:59 p.m., while RPSB personnel were conducting traffic control operations along the bridge due to the passage of heavy vehicles. A duty watchman noticed the man standing at the edge of the bridge, appearing distressed and allegedly under the influence of alcohol.
Responders quickly intervened as the man attempted to jump, preventing what could have been another tragic incident. Authorities said the individual later admitted that personal and family problems drove him to attempt to end his life.
Following the rescue, the man was turned over to the Impasug-ong Municipal Police Station, which has since coordinated with a life coach and pastor to provide psychological and emotional intervention.
Local officials expressed alarm over the rising number of suicide attempts in the area, noting that this is already the fifth case recorded in less than three months. They emphasized the urgent need for strengthened mental health support systems, community awareness, and early intervention programs.
The police urged the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report individuals showing signs of emotional distress, especially in high-risk areas such as bridges and remote locations.
Authorities also reiterated the importance of seeking help, reminding residents that mental health support is available and that reaching out to family members, community leaders, or professionals can help prevent such incidents.
As investigations and follow-up interventions continue, officials are calling for a community-wide effort to address the root causes of emotional distress and to prevent further suicide attempts in the municipality.