TACLOBAN CITY – The Northern Samar Provincial Population Office (PPO) has called for empathy and deeper understanding in the wake of a tragic case of infanticide in Barangay UEP Zone II, Catarman, where a newborn baby girl was found lifeless in a drainage canal on October 6, 2025.
In a statement, the PPO strongly condemned the act but emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying social and psychological factors that may have led to the incident.
“We believe that understanding the situation of the young mother—a college student—requires empathy and a holistic view of the emotional, social, and psychological struggles she may have been experiencing,” the PPO said.
The office also appealed to the public to refrain from passing judgment and instead promote compassion and awareness, noting that many young people silently face pressure, fear, and isolation.
“Let this serve as a reminder that our community must strengthen awareness, open communication, and accessible social support systems,” the statement added.
The PPO further stressed the need to reinforce programs on mental health, reproductive health education, and counseling, particularly for young women dealing with unplanned pregnancies and emotional distress.
It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting core advocacies such as Responsible Parenthood and Family Planning (RPFP), Adolescent Health and Development (AHD), and Gender and Development (GAD), to help individuals and families make informed and compassionate decisions.
Meanwhile, the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO) reported that the infant’s body was discovered after being allegedly disposed of by the mother.
The Women and Children Protection Desk of the Catarman Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
