In a heartfelt letter published on February 1, 2026, a 27-year-old woman named Sabeth reached out to Papa Joe for guidance amid a distressing personal crisis. She shared her story of falling in love and moving in with a partner, only to face unexpected challenges that have put her and her child at risk.
Sabeth's Plea for Help
Sabeth described herself as someone who typically respects her parents' wishes, but she chose to follow her heart by living with the man she loved. Their relationship began just three months ago, and initially, their feelings seemed mutual and intense. However, she soon discovered that her partner lacks stable employment, a concern her mother warned could lead to regret.
Despite his kind nature as an older figure, Sabeth's situation took a dark turn after she gave birth. Her partner's behavior changed drastically, revealing a shocking truth: he has been using illegal drugs. This revelation left her stunned and vulnerable, especially as he began to accuse her of infidelity, despite her loyalty even in the face of parental disapproval.
Escalating Abuse and Threats
The abuse has escalated to physical violence, with Sabeth reporting instances of being beaten. Making matters worse, her partner has denied paternity of their child, using this as a tool to further control and harm her. Feeling trapped and fearful, Sabeth expressed a desperate desire to leave the situation but is unsure how to proceed safely for herself and her baby.
Papa Joe's Compassionate Response
Papa Joe responded with empathy and practical advice, acknowledging the blindness that love can cause. He emphasized the urgency of Sabeth's situation, urging her to take immediate action to protect herself and her child from further harm.
Steps to Safety and Support
Papa Joe outlined clear steps for Sabeth to follow:
- Report to Barangay: He advised her to seek help from her local barangay office, where she can file a formal complaint. This is crucial for documenting the abuse and drug use, which could lead to legal consequences for her partner.
- Return Home: Sabeth should consider returning to her family, despite any past conflicts, to ensure a safer environment away from the abuser.
- Seek Government Assistance: If family support is unavailable, Papa Joe recommended asking the barangay to refer her to government agencies that provide aid and protection for victims of domestic violence.
He warned against falling for apologies from her partner, stressing that abusive patterns often repeat. Once she escapes, Papa Joe encouraged Sabeth to focus on her child's well-being and avoid rushing into new relationships, allowing time for healing and stability.
This exchange highlights the critical role of community advice columns in offering support and resources for those facing domestic abuse and substance-related issues in the Philippines.
