Rep. Aumentado, PNA-Bohol condemn nurse killing

“KNOW that, I condemn the act of killing or any other forms of violence and intimidation in workplaces,” Congresswoman Vanessa C. Aumentado (2nd dist) said in her social media post.

The killing of a nurse by a patient in one of the hospitals made her dismayed, saying, “I am saddened by the news of the killing of one of our nurses here in Bohol.”

The Philippine Nurses Association-Bohol Chapter also did the same. “We strongly condemn this brutality and urge a swift and thorough investigation to ensure accountability and a safer environment for all healthcare workers,” the statement said.

“Our deepest condolences go to her family and loved ones. May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory strengthen our resolve to protect those who serve,” it added.

The BoholDoc hospital has also issued a statement on the killing of a nurse. “We are deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of our nurse, whose passing resulted from an incident involving a patient. At Bohol Doctors Hospital, we consider our staff members part of our extended family, and this tragedy has deeply impacted us all. We kindly ask for understanding, privacy, and respect for the family of the deceased as we all cope with this unimaginable loss.”

It said that it is also conducting a probe into the circumstances surrounding the said incident.

The Ace Medical Center-Bohol, Inc. has issued a statement on the killing of a nurse. “Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of one of our sisters in the healthcare community who dedicated her life to serve as a NURSE. We at ACE Medical Center – Bohol, Inc. stand for her, her family and our co-healthcare provider. We believe that no one in the healthcare workforce deserves violence in all its forms.”

According to media interview, city police chief Escober said that the suspect, identified as one Marlito Linguis, 31, single, a resident of Sevilla town mercilessly stabbed the victim-nurse with a scissor on October 17, 2024.

The victim and a certain hospital utility worker, who also wounded when he tried to pacify the suspect, were not identified in the police report.

Police said that based on its investigation the suspect got angry of the nurse’s spoken words that the former was annoyed. But the same report did not mention what were the words uttered by the victim that motivated the suspect to slaughter the victim.

Police said that the suspect admitted he was a former illegal drug dependent during President’s Duterte presidency, but it was not known if he is still using the banned drugs. It said that it’s preparing for filing of murder case against the perpetrator.

Aumentado said that the incident has impacted the health community. “While violence in the workplace can happen in many other professions and sectors, this issue has profoundly affected the healthcare industry. Personally speaking, healthcare workers are oftentimes more susceptible to violence than other professions. They face different kinds of discrimination and harassment, or even worse. I am saddened by the news of the killing of one of our Nurses here in Bohol. Know that, I condemn the act of killing or any other forms of violence and intimidation in workplaces. On behalf of my family, I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members and loved ones.”

She said that she is now contemplating to file a legislation for the establishment of Mental Health Rehabilitation Center in the province. This came considering that a lot of crimes as a result of mental unstable.

“If I’m not mistaken, the then Cong, now Bohol Gov Aris Aumentado filed a bill about establishing a Drug Rehab Center in the Municipality of CPG. But that bill wasn’t approved. That is why, I am hoping and praying this bill that I am passing will prosper as I see the many benefits of this to all of us, one of which a safer and healthier place for us.”

As a Legislator, I actually co-authored HB 6416 “An Act Strengthening the Mental Health Services of State Universities and Colleges and Appropriating Funds Therefor” Approved in the House, currently in the Senate and Co-Authored also HB 6574 “An Act Strengthening the Promotion and Delivery of Mental Health Services in Basic Education through the Hiring and Development of Mental Health Professionals and Appropriating Funds Therefor” currently in the Senate too.

Mental health services are beneficial to reducing the risk of chronic diseases related to stress, anxiety, depression and substance abuse. Giving importance and attention to mental health issues help save lives. It also helps improve the outlook of people who may have lost hope and confidence about themselves and life in general.  (rvo)