⚠️ WARNING: This article contains sensitive information related to suicide. Reader discretion is strongly advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, please seek help from a mental health professional or call a crisis hotline immediately.
T’BOLI, SOUTH COTABATO – A couple died in a violent incident authorities are describing as a murder-suicide, an event investigators have linked to the husband’s prolonged battle with depression. The tragedy has left the couple’s six children orphaned.
The incident occurred in Sitio Blue, Barangay Salacafe. According to a report from the T’boli Municipal Police Station, the victim, a woman identified as Alyas Dina, was preparing breakfast when she was attacked by her husband, Alyas Telek, 46, who was armed with a bolo knife.
Police Lieutenant Gilda Forro, Deputy Chief of Police, stated that the suspect fled the scene after the attack but returned hours later. Upon his return, he took his own life.
Initial police investigation revealed that Telek had been suffering from depression since 2023. Barangay officials and acquaintances confirmed the suspect had a history of behavioral changes and was often seen withdrawn. The couple is survived by their six children, who are now in the care of relatives.
*If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please seek help. The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline can be reached at 0917-899-USAP (8727), 989-USAP, or (02) 7-989-USAP.*