A FULL-TIME psychologist and professor believes the suspect behind the brutal killing of his father in Tagum City on Saturday, January 18, 2025, may have been exhibiting psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia. The suspect confessed to hearing external voices, locally known as "hunghong," while committing the crime.
The victim, Loloy Barles, 60, was murdered in Purok 1A-Gapas, Barangay Madaum, where the son reportedly decapitated him and removed his internal organs.
De Mar Bangeles, a Davao-based psychologist and professor, suggested the suspect might be suffering from schizophrenia or a substance-induced psychotic disorder. "Based on his statements, there's the presence of hallucinations, disorganized iyang train of thoughts, and diminished emotional expression or wala lang gyud siya'y remorse (His statements indicate hallucinations, disorganized thoughts, and a lack of remorse)," Bangeles explained in an interview on Monday, January 20.
However, Bangeles said that a definitive diagnosis of schizophrenia cannot be made without further evidence.
“We can't be certain until we thoroughly evaluate his symptoms and their duration," he clarified.
The professional, who also serves as a company psychologist and visiting professor at a Cebu-based university, provided insight into the mental health condition, its symptoms, and its stages.
"Schizophrenia is a spectrum disorder, meaning it varies in terms of presentation and severity. In extreme cases like this, it would only be considered schizophrenia if it truly is”, he stated.
Bangeles also said that While people will certainly take notice, it's important to understand that not all individuals with schizophrenia are violent. Many cases can be managed effectively with proper support and treatment. This serves as a call to prioritize mental health care, which is more crucial than ever.
The Tagum City Police have not yet conducted a medical investigation on the suspect, who appeared to be exhibiting signs of mental health issues during a media interview. Police Colonel Wildemar Tiu confirmed that the suspect would undergo a psychological examination. "This is our current focus," Tiu said in the vernacular during a phone interview on January 20.
In a related report, the police recovered a scythe, bolo, hammer, shovel, and a tree branch, believed to have been used in the crime. These items have been turned over to authorities for evidence in the case. DEF