‘Bullied’ teen kills self in Zamboanga Sibugay

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines–A 14-year-old boy, believed to have been bullied in school, committed suicide in Tungawan town in Zamboanga Sibugay, on Monday.

Senior Inspector Rico Pondol, the town’s police chief, said the boy, an 8th grader at the Tungawan National High School, left a note blaming his classmate and a neighbor.

“The boy was found hanging from the ceiling, a cable wire tied around his neck. A suicide note was also recovered from the scene,” Pondol told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone.

The boy was living with an aunt.

Pedro Melchor Natividad, the assistant school division superintendent, urged authorities to investigate the boy’s death.

“The bullies must be identified to prevent more cases like this,” Natividad told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone.

He also reminded schools to strictly advocate and observe the anti-bullying guidelines.

“These bullies, if they can see any opportunity, they will do their acts against the weakest. This has to stop, and teachers, including parents, must call their attention,” Natividad added.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please reach out to the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH). Their crisis hotlines are available at 1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free), 0917-899-USAP (8727), 0966-351-4518, and 0908-639-2672. For more information, visit their website: (https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline)

Alternatively, you can contact Hopeline PH at the following numbers: 0917-5584673, 0918-8734673, 88044673. Additional resources are available at ngf-mindstrong.org, or connect with them on Facebook at Hopeline PH.