In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the community in shock, the tragic deaths of Irish Sheen Manalo and Mary Nicole Picar, two female students from Signal Village National High School in Taguig, have raised questions and left loved ones seeking answers. The circumstances surrounding their untimely demise have stirred emotions and prompted calls for a thorough investigation.
Background of the Incident
On the night of November 10, 2023, the lives of Irish Sheen Manalo and Mary Nicole Picar came to a devastating end inside the Girls Scout Mini Office on the third floor of the Magsaysay Building of Signal Village National High School. The discovery of their lifeless bodies sent shockwaves through the community, leaving families, friends, and authorities grappling with the incomprehensible tragedy.
Irish Sheen Manalo, aged 13, and Mary Nicole Picar, aged 15, were found hanging with ropes tied around their necks and attached to a steel grill in the office. The initial report by Taguig police indicated that a witness, identified as Danielle, last saw the two students at around 7:45 p.m. on the same day, when they mentioned going home. However, subsequent findings revealed that the two did not return home, leading to the tragic discovery later that night.
Law Enforcement’s Initial Assessment
The Taguig police, based on their preliminary investigation, stated that there is no evidence of foul play in the deaths of the two students. The Scene of Crime Operation (SOCO) and the Philippine National Police-Taguig emphasized that speculation should be avoided, as it could worsen the situation for the grieving families. The police assured the public, especially the bereaved families, that the investigation would continue thoroughly and expeditiously.
Family and Community Response
The families of Irish Sheen Manalo and Mary Nicole Picar are left grappling with grief and seeking clarity about the circumstances that led to such a tragic outcome. Rhea Manalo, a cousin of Irish, expressed doubts about the nature of the incident on social media, urging classmates, teachers, and friends to come forward and share the truth.
The Taguig City government also released a statement expressing condolences to the grieving families and assuring them of full support. Mayor Lani Cayetano has called for a thorough investigation to uncover the details surrounding this heart-wrenching event. The government has urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information on social media out of respect for the feelings of the bereaved families.
Support Services and Guidance
In the wake of this distressing event, the city government highlighted existing support programs, such as the “Helping Others find Peace and Encouragement (HOPE) Program,” aimed at addressing anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and suicidal tendencies in students. The city government emphasized the availability of counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists at Signal Village National High School to help those struggling to cope with the tragedy. Additionally, the Taguig Mental Health Teleconsultation Hotline has been made available for anyone in need.
In this time of collective sorrow, the community is urged to come together to navigate the difficult experience and show collective resolve to overcome this tragic loss of young lives. Every life is a precious gift, and the city government is committed to providing the necessary support to help individuals cope with the aftermath of this devastating incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of Irish Sheen Manalo and Mary Nicole Picar, hoping that answers will bring some measure of understanding and closure to their grieving loved ones.
@yuan1890 justice for Irish sheen & mary #signalvillagenationalhighschool #fyppppppp #taguigcity #fyp ♬ original sound – 💋