Probe sought into suicide at Maguindanao COVID-19 facility
COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Parents of a Teduray youth who died by suicide while under quarantine in Maguindanao are calling for an investigation into conditions at the facility that may have led to it.
The 19-year-old Benjie Udasan had reportedly been restless in recent days and his father Antonio said he wants a thorough probe into the incident.
South Upi Mayor Reynalbert Insular said Wednesday that Udasan, whose family is in South Upi town, was required to undergo a 14-day isolation after arriving from Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat province, where there ar COVID-19 cases.
"We are still trying to get a clear picture of the incident. We assure you of utmost transparency on this," Insular said.
He said Udasan tested negative for COVID-19 but was asked to undergo a 14-day isolation anyway as part of the local government's policies to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The government no longer allows potential and confirmed COVID-19 patients to quarantine at home, saying this risks transmission in the household.
The Department of Health has acknowledged that the pandemic can affect mental health and has emphasized that those who feel sad or worried during the coronavirus pandemic are not alone.
"Okey lang na hindi ka okey. Hindi ka nag-iisa. May mga taong naandiyan para suportahan ka," it says on its FAQ on mental health.
(It is okay to not be okay. You are not alone. There are people who will support you)
DOH also suggests going on "brain breaks" like getting in touch with family or friends through text messaging, phone calls, or online chat. It says it is important to stay connected with others despite the restrictions on movement due to the pandemic.
"You can talk to them about what you are experiencing," the DOH said.
It also suggests exercise and doing things that make you happy or that relax you.
The department urges people seeking professional support to get in touch with the National Center for Mental Health hotlines at 0917-899-USAP (8727) or 899-USAP (8727); or its Mind Matters hotline at 09189424864. — The STAR/John Unson
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