Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 30) — Actress-turned-realtor Michelle Madrigal revealed that she was sexually abused when she was a child.
Madrigal, who is now based in the United States, said she was unaware that she was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and only sought help when she turned 20.
“To be completely transparent, I endured sexual abuse at a tender age for a number of years, a time when my innocence was cruelly taken, leading to a tumultuous adolescence,” she said in an Instagram post on Friday.
“Shame and self-blame consumed me for years,” Madrigal added. “I was angry, indifferent, seeking solace in drugs and alcohol to escape the overwhelming emotions, unworthiness, and fear. I often questioned why it happened to me.”
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But by seeking divine guidance, Madrigal said she found her purpose.
“My purpose in life is clear: to support survivors,” she declared. “I’ve always yearned to use my voice for a greater cause, and my mission is to help one survivor at a time feel acknowledged and secure, reassuring them that their story is significant.”
Now 35 and a mom to a six-year-old daughter, Anika, Madrigal is encouraging other parents to be a safe space for their children to open up on such struggles.
“Past generations often lacked the knowledge or tools to address such issues, often sweeping them under the rug in different cultures,\” she said. \”Many children don’t feel safe enough to confide in anyone, let alone their parents, about their experiences.\”
“I’m determined to change that narrative, to extend a helping hand, and foster an environment where openness and support prevail,\” she added.
Madrigal also asked the public to donate to the US-based organization Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network, and to support the National Sexual Assault Hotline and other awareness efforts.
The Star Circle Quest finalist left the Philippines in 2016 to pursue a culinary course and later delved into real estate.
The Philippines earlier ranked second worldwide when it comes to online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, according to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.
