Six cases of suicide documented in the province since January 2026; “(If you have problems) di ka nag-iisa, talk to your friends… family, especially” - Kalinga PHO

Tabuk City, Kalinga – With six documented suicide cases since January 2026, the Provincial Health Office is urging the public not to be afraid to seek help and reminding individuals struggling with life’s difficulties that they are not alone in their fight.

According to data from the PHO, the six cases were recorded from January to April 10, 2026. Of these, six individuals died by suicide, while two other cases involved attempts to take their own lives within the same period.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Ed Tandingan, in an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, clarified that the figures represent only those officially reported to their office, suggesting that there may be more unreported cases.

“There is an inherent difficulty in identifying people who have died by suicide, so counting it would also be difficult. So, our safe assumption is that for those we know are really suicidal, pwedeng mas marami. Safer na mas meron pang iba, but we don’t know,” he admitted.

Among the initiatives being undertaken by the PHO to promote mental health wellness among the iKalingas are Information and Education Campaigns and Psychological First Aid programs. Additionally, the Provincial Health Board is planning to hire a psychiatrist who will be based in Kalinga to address the mental health conditions and concerns of the population.

In light of the reported suicide cases, the PHO is urging the public to seek help by dialing 1553, the 24/7 mental health crisis hotline of the National Center for Mental Health. Other emergency contact numbers include 0919-057-1553 and 0917-899-8727.

When asked about his message to individuals experiencing problems and difficulties in life, Tandingan reminded them that they are not alone in their struggles and encouraged them to talk to others about what they are going through.

“You are not alone. Approach your friends. Talk with people and just remember na hindi ka nag-iisa. Sometimes you have to speak with your friends, with your family especially kasi what you might be thinking as abnormal [situation] is common … hindi ka nag-iisang may ganyang sitwasyon and it’s not abnormal, and it’s not bad to consult or talk to people,” explained the provincial health officer.

Tandingan admitted that it is difficult to find safe space but one of the best defense mechanisms still is talking about problems out, adding that there is a need to “trust in the Almighty.”

 “I personally believe, mas marami ang good people than bad people,” Tandingan concluded.