Baguio records 50 suicides cases from 2024-early 2025; most victims were teenagers

Baguio City, Philippines – Baguio city revealed a record of 50 deaths by suicide from 2024 to the early 2025. 

Speaking during a mental health awareness month event recently, Doctor Ricky Ducas of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) reported that of the total cases, 35 were recorded in 2024, while in in the first quarter of this year, there were already 15. 

Many of the victims were aged 15-19, followed by those in their mid-20s. However, Ducas clarified that many of the victims were not originally from Baguio but were staying in the city for school, work, and business. 

With said problem, Ducas urged the public to take mental health seriously, saying it should be addressed with the same treatment as physical health. 

“Mental health is just as important as physical health. Please seek professional help if needed…Suicide is a sickness that should be taken very seriously and is preventable,” he stressed.

The health professional also reminded everyone in the city to call the Baguio Smart Hotline 911 during emergencies, whether the concern is physical or mental in nature. 

For his part, Mayor Benjamin Magalong recently met with the leaders of the city offices, barangays, schools, and businesses. As cited by the Baguio Information Office, one of the plans of the mayor is to hold a workshop to create solutions and programs that will prevent suicide from happening.