Second-year nursing student Angyl Faith Ababat, who made headlines and went viral on social media after saving a 54-year-old street vendor whose neck was slashed by a jealous live-in partner, has a message for everyone who might face the same situation in the future.
"I just want to tell them that it is okay to be scared, it is a normal reaction. But if you are able to help, especially if you are knowledgeable enough, then be a vessel to help and aid those in need," she said in a Manila Bulletin interview.
"The Lord will reward you on behalf of your actions tenfold," she added.
The gruesome attack, which happened on Plaridel St. in downtown Cebu City on Jan. 30, was captured by a closed-circuit television camera and uploaded online.
Ababat said that the suspect marched into the vendor's stall and grabbed her hair before slashing her neck.
"You can see me being hesitant to approach nanay since I was still scouting for any possible adult or any senior premed or med student that is more skilled than I am," she recalled.
Ababat also admitted that she initially had second thoughts about approaching the woman for the fear of getting in trouble.
"I was really scared because I thought, 'what if this man returns and stabs me for helping her partner?'" she said.
Fortunately, the future nurse's calling to save those needing medical attention prevailed over fear.
"But when I noticed that no one really came to help her, and since I have basic knowledge in first aid, I decided to come and help," she said.
According to a report by SunStar, the suspect was arrested by Guadalupe Police Station operatives in a follow-up operation and admitted to committing the crime out of jealousy.
Outpouring of recognition
Her courageous act was lauded by the netizens as well as the University of Cebu (UC) where she studies.
"I am truly overwhelmed and super blessed to have received such praises," Ababat said.
"Thank you, Angyl Faith Ababat! You truly are God's angel here on earth! God grant you great favor in your nursing career, may He bless and protect you always," one netizen commented in a UC Facebook post.
"Kudos to you Angyl Faith! Your personality suits your name... Such a good heart to help others and respond to such an immediate case or incident," said another.
Ababat and the vendor are yet to speak with each other since the latter is still in the Intensive Care Unit.
"But she's showing positive reactions from the treatment," Ababat said.
Regional newspaper, The Freeman, stated that Ababat will receive a scholarship from UC for her deed while another second-year nursing student named Kristianne Joice Noelle Ona, who assisted her in applying pressure to the vendor’s wound, will be endorsed to receive the same award.
Powerhouse Review Center also grant Ababat a scholarship for her future national and international licensure exams.
She is also set to receive recognition from the Philippine Nurses Association, National Youth Commission-Visayas, Cebu City Police Office, local government, and other nurses' organizations.
"Good job Angyl, you serve as good example of a true UCnian that cares. You're a real 'HERO'. The whole University of Cebu community is so proud of you!," said UC.
The university even chose Ababat as the model for its marketing poster.
"From a role model, Now you are a real model!" the school said.
Ababat's mother works as a school principal, while her father is a businessman.
If her family's financial situation permits, Ababat dreams of pursuing a degree in Medicine in the future.