MANILA, Philippines — Jeremiah Rosales, the younger brother of actor Jericho Rosales, apologized to his family after he relapsed into substance use and isolated himself for about a month.
Jeremiah discussed his disappearance and struggles in a YouTube interview with broadcast journalist Julius Babao on Tuesday, Aug. 4, more than a month after he left his family without informing them. His wife, Jhen, had reported him missing.
Jeremiah said he isolated himself because he believed he needed time to deal with personal and family problems. He also acknowledged turning to alcohol and drugs as an outlet during a difficult period.
“One month akong nag-isolate para sa betterment of the family,” Jeremiah said, adding that he faced difficulties involving his wife, children and personal issues.
He also disclosed that financial problems affected his family. At one point, he said he collected and sold recyclable materials to earn money.
Jeremiah said he experienced depression during that period, which contributed to his relapse. He later had an argument with his children, who sought help from their uncle Jericho.
According to Jeremiah, Jericho decided to have him readmitted to a rehabilitation facility.
Jeremiah said he left their home after realizing that his family planned to send him back to rehabilitation. He took only his wallet and motorcycle keys before asking a friend for money to travel to Bicol, where some of his relatives live.
He found work as a construction worker in Bicol and initially planned to leave again after learning that his wife had reported him missing.
Jeremiah said he eventually felt relieved after learning that Jericho knew where he was. He said his brother also sent money to their relatives so they could provide him with food and other necessities.
That support prompted Jeremiah to decide to return to his family and work on his recovery.
“Doon ako nag-decide na talagang babaguhin ko na ang sarili ko at babalikan ko ang pamilya ko,” he said.
Jeremiah then apologized to his family for his actions.
“Ito na naman ako, hihingi ng tawad sa inyo. Sorry, naging marupok ako,” he said.
He also apologized to Jericho for the difficulties his disappearance caused.
“Pinipilit ko magbago, tol. Mahina lang ‘yung foundation ko pero nagpapakatigas ako,” Jeremiah told his brother. “Ito na siguro ‘yung time na desidido na akong magbago.”
