A twelve-member family from Barangay Gibitngil, Medellin, Cebu, has reportedly been suffering from extreme psychological distress in the aftermath of the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that jolted northern Cebu on September 30.
In a report, the Medellin Rural Health Unit (RHU), in coordination with a medical team from Manila, administered Psychological First Aid (PFA) to the family to prevent any potential self-harm.
Authorities were alerted after Barangay Captain Monina Monato contacted the Medellin Municipal Police Station, reporting that several members of a local Christian congregation were exhibiting alarming mental and emotional symptoms.
Police Major Manuel Cabanlit, chief of the Medellin Police, said officers quickly proceeded to the area together with representatives from the local government unit and the Municipal Social Welfare and Services Office (MSWSO).
When they reached the familyβs home, responders found all 12 members, including a pregnant woman and an eight-year-old child, disoriented and struggling to communicate. Officials said the family appeared to be on the verge of attempting suicide before immediate intervention took place.
Rene Barro, leader of the religious group the family is part of, informed authorities that the members had refused to eat since October 1, 2025, as they continued to suffer from trauma caused by the earthquake.
Officials further revealed that the family had been discarding relief food packs into the sea, and several members had reportedly voiced intentions of taking their own lives.
Janice Sumalinog of the Municipal Social Welfare and Services Office (MSWSO) said that a combined team from the Rural Health Unit (RHU) and a visiting group of medical professionals from Manila administered Psychological First Aid to the affected family.
The familyβs patriarch is currently hospitalized for further treatment. When asked about any prior mental health issues, Sumalinog stated that no previous concerns had been reported.
Authorities confirmed that those showing signs of psychological distress have already been provided with appropriate medication.
