SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) in the Ilocos Region conducted an orientation workshop in Naguilian, La Union, from October 2-4, 2024, to educate information officers, health promotion officers, media practitioners, and content creators on the ethical and responsible reporting of suicide cases.
DOH Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco emphasized the sensitivity of reporting suicide cases, stressing the need to avoid sensationalizing the incidents and potentially triggering “copycat” cases.
She urged media professionals to prioritize accuracy, compassion, and responsible reporting while providing reliable information on suicide prevention and support services.
“As media practitioners, you need to provide reliable information when reporting suicide and suicide prevention; ascertain the facts of the incident; avoid describing the details of suicide; be cautious when interviewing the family members and include helplines for mental health and support services in their news report. It is better to consult mental health professionals before an interview and before reporting the suicide case,” she stated.
According to the Health Emergency Alert Reporting System’s 2023 statistics, the region recorded a total of 73 suicide cases.
The province with the most cases is Ilocos Sur with 30, followed by La Union with 24, Ilocos Norte with 11, and Pangasinan with eight.
The orientation was guided by the DOH Administrative Order 2022-0004, which outlines guidelines for ethical and responsible reporting of suicide.
The guidelines aim to reduce the incidence of suicidal thoughts and attempts by ensuring responsible handling of suicide cases in media, audiovisuals, and films.
Regional Health Program Coordinator for Mental Health Erwin Baclig Jr. stressed the importance of accuracy and sensitivity in reporting suicide cases.
He advised participants to avoid judgmental or insensitive language, sensationalized reporting, and front-page placement in newspapers or main segments in prime-time broadcasts.
“Ibigay lang natin ang essential facts ng suicide case; avoid being judgmental or do not use insensitive language like ‘suicide’ or ‘nagpakamatay’ in headlines at huwag ding gawing sensationalize ang reporting,” he said.
Baclig also recommended excluding details like the method and location of the incident, conducting cautious and compassionate interviews with bereaved families, and avoiding sharing personal or sensitive information.
He emphasized compliance with the Data Privacy Act and the importance of providing accurate and helpful information to the public.
A total of 40 participants attended the orientation workshop, which was held in conjunction with the annual Mental Health Month celebration in October.
Joan Sabado from the Department of Education-Ilocos, one of the participants, said, “The orientation provided invaluable insights for media practitioners, government communicators, and even medical professionals on mindful and responsible reporting of suicide incidents. It’s a crucial step towards fostering a culture of understanding and support for individuals struggling with mental health issues. By disseminating accurate and sensitive information, we can help break down stigma and encourage those in need to seek assistance.”
By empowering media professionals with the knowledge and tools to report suicide cases responsibly, the DOH in the Ilocos Region aims to contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society, fostering a culture of support for individuals struggling with mental health issues. (AMB/PIA Region 1)
