SAN MIGUEL, Zamboanga del Sur — A 30-year-old employee of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) was found lifeless on Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Purok 5, Barangay Sayog, in what authorities have ruled as a case with no foul play involved.
According to the San Miguel Municipal Police Station, the victim had earlier attended a family reunion on the same day. Relatives reportedly noticed unusual behavior and decided to bring him home out of concern. Despite efforts by his sibling to calm and watch over him, the victim later ran away from the house. Family members searched the surrounding area but were unable to locate him immediately.
Several hours later, a neighbor tending to a carabao discovered the man’s body near a mango tree and immediately alerted the family. Authorities and personnel from the Rural Health Unit of San Miguel responded promptly and confirmed that there were no signs of external harm or criminal involvement.
The victim’s family later shared that he had been quietly battling anxiety and depression for some time. His remains have since been prepared by the family for burial as they grieve the loss of a loved one taken too soon.
This tragic incident underscores the growing but often unseen struggle with mental health, particularly depression, which can affect anyone regardless of profession, background, or family support. Mental health advocates continue to stress that changes in behavior should be taken seriously and that seeking professional help is a vital step—not a sign of weakness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm, help is available. In the Philippines, individuals may contact the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline at 1553 or reach out to local health offices and trusted professionals. No one has to face their struggles alone—listening ears, care, and support are always within reach.