Lukenn Sabellano during happier days. ARCHIVE

The body of a Filipino man who was reported missing in Switzerland has been found, his brother confirmed, shedding light on the ongoing struggle with depression and mental health issues among overseas Filipinos. Lukenn Sabellano’s body was discovered in Interlaken, Switzerland, on Saturday (August 24), his brother Jerson Sabellano confirmed, citing information from the Philippine Embassy. Lukenn, 30, originally from Cebu in the Philippines, was last seen participating in a ziplining activity with a tour guide in Lauterbrunnen, near Mürren. He was residing in Luxembourg, where he was employed. “It is with great sadness that we share the news we received from the Philippine Embassy regarding the passing of our beloved Lukenn Sabellano, whose body was found in Interlaken, Switzerland. At this time, we are unable to share further details,” Jerson said in a Facebook post. The family expressed their deep sorrow and refrained from disclosing more information about the circumstances surrounding Lukenn’s death. “We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our families, friends, the Filipino community, and his employer who extended their concern, help, and guidance during the search. We also wish to thank the police, volunteers, and government agencies for their tireless efforts and continued assistance throughout this difficult time,” he added. Jerson was the first to alert the public about Lukenn’s disappearance through a post in a Facebook group for Filipinos in Switzerland, stating that Lukenn had been missing since August 16. He reported that the Philippine Embassy and local police were informed, and a search operation was underway. Jerson's post was widely shared, even by UAE-based Filipinos. Just days before he went missing, Lukenn posted a series of messages on social media alluding to his struggles with depression and thoughts about his "final chapter" and "impending demise." In a poignant Facebook Story, Lukenn wrote: “I've planned this day a few months ago yet I'm still not certain if I wanted the world to know of my impending demise. I doubt anyone would have noticed my absence. Yet, I owe it to myself to share even a fragment of my story, to let the echoes of my existence linger for just a moment longer, even if only a few choose to listen. For the first time in a long time I can truly smile because I know that I'll be at peace, free from all the endless nights with tears. Goodbye, forever.” He continued, sharing deeply personal reflections: “For as long as I can remember, I’ve carried the heavy burden of depression, an ever-present darkness that I’ve kept hidden from the world. On the surface, I try to appear cheerful and carefree, always smiling and going out of my way to prioritize the happiness of those around me. It’s a façade I’ve gotten used to, a mask that shields my true feelings from those I care about. Hiding my inner turmoil while silently battling my own struggles. The paradox of appearing joyful while feeling anything but is a challenge I navigate daily, often at the expense of my own well-being.” Lukenn revealed that his battle with depression began after “the person I used to love moved abroad to pursue a dream.”

Tributes pour in for Lukenn

Following the news of Lukenn's death, a wave of condolences and tributes has flooded social media, with many people reflecting on the importance of mental health. Rejoice Pepito wrote: “Our hearts ache with the loss of a talented, beautiful soul who battled demons in silence. We regret not being able to save you, but we pray you're now dancing in heaven, free from all the pain. Your struggle was unseen by many, but your light shone brightly. We are heartbroken to lose you, but we know you're in a place where pain no longer holds you.” Nicole Imhof, a Filipino living in Switzerland, shared how Lukenn’s death reminded her of her own struggles with depression after losing her parents. “Farewell Lukenn, I may not know you but I can only pray for your family and people left behind. There will be no answer, but in God's time, there will be a healing process,” Imhof wrote. Her words reflect the shared grief and the ongoing conversation about the importance of addressing mental health issues, especially within the Filipino community. Lukenn Sabellano’s passing has sparked a vital dialogue about depression and mental health, reminding everyone of the need for compassion and support for those who may be struggling silently. ICA/Expat Media
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