I. Silence Shattered: The Companion Speaks Out

Following days of public grief and speculation surrounding the tragic passing of prominent social media personality Eman Atienza, questions, rumors, and accusations have steadily mounted regarding the final moments of his life. At the epicenter of these swirling narratives stands one man—the individual identified as the last person to have been with Eman before his death.

Stepping forward in a highly publicized and emotional interview, the man, whose identity remains guarded in this account but has been widely scrutinized online, stated he could no longer bear the weight of public judgment. “I never wanted to be in this situation. I am grieving too,” he stated, his voice thick with emotion.

The interview, which immediately went viral, sought to reclaim his narrative from the court of public opinion.

II. A Fierce Defense: “I Had Nothing to Do with It”

The man vehemently denied any involvement in Eman’s death, emphasizing the long-standing nature of their bond. “We were friends,” he insisted.

According to his testimony, he visited Eman’s residence just two days before the news of the passing broke. They were close friends who frequently checked in on each other. He recalled Eman being in good spirits during that last meeting: “He was lively. Laughing, talking about his plans for life, for content, for all the things he still wanted to do.”

He maintained there were absolutely no overt signs that Eman was carrying such a heavy burden.

“I never thought that was our last meeting. If I had known… I wish I never left him alone,” he added, visibly struggling to hold back tears as he recounted their final moments.

Their visit, he recalled, lasted until the early hours of the morning. “I left around 3:00 AM. He was happy. There were no indications that anything was wrong.”

III. The Scrutiny and the Cost of Public Judgment

Immediately after the news of Eman’s passing spread, photographs and videos of their last meeting were circulated online. This instant connection led to rampant speculation, placing the man squarely at the center of public accusation and suspicion.

“It pains me to hear that I am the one being suspected,” he said. “I was also hurt by Eman’s loss. He was my friend—and I did nothing wrong.”

A key point of contention for many netizens was a seemingly cheerful video he posted on social media just hours after the news of Eman’s death went viral. He quickly clarified the timing: “I had no idea then. It was not my intention to look uncaring. When I learned the truth, my world crumbled.”

He lamented that the swiftness of public judgment has inflicted severe damage, not only to his reputation but also to his own mental well-being. “Instead of allowing me to grieve in private, I had to defend myself against people who don’t even know me,” he expressed. He pleaded for patience and understanding: “Before we comment or judge, let’s find out the whole story. Eman was a good person—and I want to remember him for who he was, not for how he passed.”

IV. The Heavy Truth: “Not All Smiles Are Truly Happy”

The man revealed that he was informed of Eman’s death by a friend two days later. “They said Eman was gone. I thought it was a joke. I couldn’t believe it. When it was confirmed, my world collapsed.”

Since then, his name and image have been subjected to relentless harassment. Every move he makes is scrutinized. “I don’t know how I will recover. But I know I needed to speak—for myself and for Eman.”

His message to the public extended beyond self-defense, offering a poignant reminder about the nature of mental health struggles:

“Sometimes the people who often make others happy are the ones carrying the heaviest burdens. Eman was like that. He laughed a lot, joked around a lot, but he had a depth that we didn’t immediately see.”

He emphasized that this tragedy should be a moment for understanding, not blame. “We should not allow anger and gossip to drown Eman’s name. What we need now is prayer and silence.”

V. A Call for Peace and Respect

As authorities reportedly continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death, the man appealed for respect—not only for himself but also for the grieving Atienza family. “I loved Eman as a friend. My only prayer now is for his peace.”

Meanwhile, the Atienza family and Eman’s supporters continue their quiet mourning. Social media remains flooded with photos, memories, and prayers, reflecting the deep love and loss felt for the young influencer.

In the final moments of his interview, battling tears, the man expressed his uncertainty about when the public judgment would cease. “But I hope the day comes when they understand that I, too, am a victim—of losing a friend, and of a system that is quick to judge.”

He concluded with a heartfelt declaration: “I never hurt Eman. The truth is—I loved him like a brother. And in my heart, he will never be forgotten.”