Recently, a post on Facebook became viral in which a Filipina domestic worker was seen crying at the Hong Kong International Airport. The reason? She failed to board her flight because she doesn’t have a medical certificate.
According to OFW Ma Lourdes de la Paz, just had a stroke. She went to the office of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration last Monday, Aug 22. The OFW went there to ask for help.
Image from SunWebHK
However, de la Paz didn’t know that she needs clearance before she could board a flight back to the Philippines. According to her, OWWA didn’t offer any help, saying that she will have to work on her benefits in the Philippines. OWWA only gave her a mask and a sachet of coffee.
De la Paz also asked for an escort to HK airport, but it was not granted too. This is something that they usually do when an OFW is sick. Before the pandemic, it can be recalled that OWWA staff escorts OFWs to the airport.
When the OFW arrived at the airport and was already in the check-in counter, she was asked to present proof that she is allowed to return to the Philippines. She couldn’t present any proof so the airline tried to ask for help but to no avail.
In the end, de la Paz failed to board her flight and her ticket was not valid anymore. The ticket was brought by an NGO to help her return home.
New appointed OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio responded to the post of de la Paz, stating that they are investigating the case.
Currently, the OFW is still in Hong Kong.
Source SunWebHK
