‘Compassion and courage’: Kuya Kim’s message on daughter Emman’s passing

Kim Atienza mourns the passing of his 19-year-old daughter, Emman Atienza, whose untimely death has created a buzz in both local and international news outlets.

Trigger Warning: This article mentions suicide.

“Emman will be home,” said Kim Atienza as a way to end his most recent post. 

The Kapuso broadcaster and television personality is mourning the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Emman Atienza, who passed away at the age of 19 while abroad.

The beloved “Kuya Kim” took to social media earlier this week to share with followers that the family is preparing to hold a wake for Emman in Manila, where loved ones and friends will be able to pay their final respects.

Gratitude over sympathy

“Thank you so much for all the messages of comfort to the family. We may not be able to reply but we appreciate you all,” he wrote in his post, expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy and support.

He added that the family will announce further details once arrangements have been finalized, assuring everyone that his daughter will soon be brought home.

Days after sharing the news, Atienza posted a touching tribute to his daughter, a video of Emman singing “Sailor Song” by Gigi Perez inside a recording studio.

The clip, uploaded on Oct. 25, quickly went viral, reaching over million views and drawing thousands of heartfelt comments from netizens offering prayers and condolences.

In the caption, Kim wrote a verse from the Bible: “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”

The post captured the raw grief of a father remembering his daughter’s passion for music and creativity.

Earlier, Kim also shared a reflection with his followers, encouraging kindness and empathy in everyday life: “Compassion, courage, and a little extra kindness in your everyday life.”

The world mourns

Emman’s passing has sparked an outpouring of sympathy not only in the Philippines but also across the globe. Major international media outlets such as The New York Post, TMZ, Daily Mail, People, and Us Weekly have reported on her untimely death, underscoring the widespread impact of her story.

According to reports, Emman passed away in Los Angeles, California, on Oct. 22. In an official statement released by Kim, his wife Felicia Hung Atienza, and their children Jose and Eliana, they did not directly disclose the cause of Emman’s passing but hinted that it was related to mental health challenges.

While several international outlets have reported suicide as the cause, the family continues to ask for privacy and understanding as they grieve the loss of their beloved daughter.

Emman, remembered as a bright and talented young woman, leaves behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and light that deeply touched everyone who knew her.

Help is available. Speak with someone today.

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