Filipino influencer Emman Atienza has passed away at the age of 19.
Her death was determined to be by suicide, according to records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. This information was seen by Us Weekly.
Atienza’s family, including parents Felicia Hung Atienza and Kim Atienza, released a joint statement. They announced her unexpected passing on Thursday, October 23, via Instagram.
The family expressed profound sadness. "She brought so much joy, laughter, and love into our lives and to everyone who knew her," the statement read.
Her loved ones praised her authenticity. They noted that Emman had a unique ability to make others feel "seen and heard."
She was also open about her own mental health journey. Her candor helped many people feel less isolated.
Emman was the daughter of wellness entrepreneur Felicia Hung Atienza and TV host Kim Atienza. Her parents also have two other children.
The family’s public statement did not specify the cause of Emman’s death. However, she had previously spoken out about her mental health struggles.
In a January social media post, Atienza detailed her long-standing battle. "I came into 2024 [wondering] if I even wanted to live to see it through," she wrote. "I’ve dealt with treatment-resistant mental illness since I was 12."
She added that her condition seemed to worsen over time. Emman also shared that she experienced bullying during her teenage years.
Atienza admitted to lying to her therapist about her recovery. She feared disappointing them by acknowledging her persistent desire not to live.
She revealed a relapse into self-harm on her birthday in 2024. This led to intensive therapy sessions in Los Angeles.
Emman recalled processing past traumas during this period. She described hitting "new lows," often crying or screaming after sessions.
Upon returning to the Philippines, she found a fresh perspective. Yet, she harbored little optimism and deep doubts about improving.
Simultaneously, Atienza felt a strong resolve to change her life. She began eliminating unhealthy habits, environments, and relationships.
"I made slow, but meaningful changes," Emman explained. She learned new coping mechanisms and strengthened her boundaries.
This process helped her develop greater self-worth and confidence. She concluded her post by stating she no longer felt invisible or influenced by others’ opinions.
Emman moved back to Los Angeles earlier this year.
Her parents made a simple request to fans. They hope fans will honor Emman’s memory by embodying "compassion, bravery, and a little more kindness."
If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling, help is available. Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org.