Emman Atienza’s Father Kuya Kim Shares Her Cause of Death and Emotional Final Texts

Filipino TV host and weather anchor Kim Atienza, known as Kuya Kim, has spoken publicly for the first time about the death of his 19-year-old daughter, Emmanuelle “Emman” Atienza. Emman died by suicide in October 2025 at her Los Angeles home, a tragedy that has deeply shaken the Atienza family and her followers.

In an emotional interview with journalist Jessica Soho, Kuya Kim reflected on the days leading up to Emman’s passing, describing the unbearable grief of losing his youngest child. He also revealed the contents of her final messages to her mother, which painted a heartbreaking picture of her struggle with mental health.

Final Messages and What Led to Emman’s Death

According to Kuya Kim, two days before her death, Emman texted her mother, Felicia Hung, saying she was in an emergency and needed to visit a therapy center. She clarified that her message wasn’t about self-harm but about seeking help. After that message, the family was unable to reach her, which they later realized was an alarming sign that something had gone terribly wrong.

Emman was found dead by suicide through ligature hanging on October 22, 2025. The Los Angeles County authorities confirmed the cause of death shortly afterward. Kuya Kim said he was devastated upon receiving the news from his wife, describing his immediate collapse in grief. “I would rather have cancer. Physical pain you can prepare for, but the pain of losing a child—there’s no place for it,” he said during the interview.

Despite the unimaginable loss, Atienza said his faith has helped him find peace. “I know this is part of God’s plan. There is a reason, and it is beautiful, even if I cannot see it now,” he said tearfully. The family has since urged the public to show compassion and understanding toward those suffering from mental health struggles.

Emman’s Legacy and the Call for Mental Health Awareness

Emman Atienza was part of GMA Network’s Sparkle Artist Center and a popular social media personality. She often used her platforms to talk openly about self-love, anxiety, and the importance of seeking help—messages that resonated with thousands of young Filipinos.

Following her death, fans and fellow artists flooded social media with tributes, calling her “a light in the darkness.” Kuya Kim and Felicia have both said they hope Emman’s story inspires others to reach out for help and to be kinder to those silently battling mental illness.

Her wake was held at The Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City in early November 2025 and was open to the public. The Atienza family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and prayers they received from the Filipino community at home and abroad.

Emman Atienza’s story has reignited conversations about youth mental health and the pressures of social media, with her father now dedicating his platform to promote awareness and compassion.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the cause of Emman Atienza’s death?

Authorities confirmed that Emman Atienza died by suicide through ligature hanging in her Los Angeles home on October 22, 2025.

Q2: What did Emman text her mother before she passed away?

Two days before her death, she texted her mother saying she needed to go to a therapy center and emphasized that there was no self-harm involved.

Q3: How did Kuya Kim react to his daughter’s death?

He was devastated and collapsed in grief upon hearing the news, later finding comfort in his faith and belief that everything happens for a divine reason.

Q4: Was Emman open about her mental health struggles?

Yes, she was vocal about her mental health on social media and encouraged others to seek help and practice self-care.

Q5: Where was Emman Atienza’s wake held?

Her wake took place at The Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City in early November 2025 and was open to the public.