RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Zamboanga del Sur — A police officer assigned in Pagadian City was found dead inside the Ramon Magsaysay Municipal Police Station on Wednesday morning, December 31, 2025, in an incident that has once again drawn attention to the growing mental health challenges faced by uniformed personnel.
The victim was identified as Police Corporal Jessie Vergas Arcoy, 36, a resident of Pagadian City. He was discovered inside the Operations Section on the second floor of the police station at around 10:40 a.m., after fellow officers noticed that he had not come down for several hours.
According to the Officer-in-Charge of the station, a colleague knocked on the room where PCpl. Arcoy was staying, only to find him already lifeless. Initial findings indicate that the officer died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound using his issued service firearm.
The station’s OIC said the last time he saw PCpl. Arcoy was on the evening of December 30, while the latter was having dinner at the station kitchen. Authorities later learned that the officer had been dealing with personal problems and had reportedly attempted to take his own life in the past.
The entire force of the Ramon Magsaysay Municipal Police Station expressed deep grief over the loss, describing PCpl. Arcoy as a kind, dedicated, and hardworking public servant. The police leadership extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of assistance during this difficult time.
An investigation and proper documentation of the incident have been initiated, while the Philippine National Police also looks into reinforcing psychosocial and mental health interventions for its personnel.
A Strong Reminder: Mental Health Matters
This tragic incident is a painful reminder that depression and mental health struggles can affect anyone, including those who are trained to protect and serve. Stress, trauma, and personal difficulties—when left unaddressed—can become overwhelming.
No one has to face these battles alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, emotional distress, or thoughts of self-harm, help is always available:
- NCMH Crisis Hotline (Philippines):
📞 1553 (landline)
📱 0966-351-4518 / 0908-639-2672 - Hopeline PH:
📱 0917-558-4673
Reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it is a step toward healing. Listening, checking in, and offering support can save lives. Let this tragedy serve as a call for stronger compassion, open conversations, and accessible mental health care for everyone, especially those who carry heavy responsibilities every day.