In Manila, Philippines, DFA has officially verified the demise of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Hong Kong. The body of the Filipina was discovered at the Tsing Yi public pier on July 13. To respect the family’s wishes, the individual’s identity, job details, and other specifics are being kept confidential
The Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary handling migrant workers, Paul Cortes, shared in a radio dzBB interview that the Philippine consulate and Hong Kong police have verified the discovery of a body in a waterway. Joggers first spotted the decaying body around 6 in the morning, they saw a body floating near the pier,” he said. “They attempted to retrieve the body because it seemed entangled due to the passing ships. When they found the body, it was already somewhat decomposed,” he added. “A post-mortem examination must be done. We want to determine what happened to our fellow countrymen,” he further explained.
Although Philippine authorities are working in coordination with Hong Kong police, the exact cause of death remains undetermined, and there is currently no evidence of foul play. The body was found in an advanced stage of decomposition, swollen, and discolored, with no indication of a suicide note.
Cortes expressed confidence in Hong Kong’s law enforcement agencies, trusting that a prompt and thorough investigation will be conducted. While the initial investigation by Hong Kong authorities does not suggest any foul play, an official report on the cause of death is awaited, as stated by Cortes during a public briefing.
Cortes also mentioned that, currently, there is no indication of foul play or any specific person of interest involved in the case.
Furthermore, Cortes informed that both the family and the employer of the deceased Filipino woman have been notified. The Philippine government, Hong Kong authorities, and the employer will be assisting in this matter.
Cortes explained that the repatriation of the overseas Filipino worker’s remains cannot be arranged until the Hong Kong authorities release the certificate stating the cause of death.
Despite the unfortunate situation, Cortes assured the public that the Hong Kong government is fully committed to providing help and support.
The discovery of the deceased OFW’s remains happened after several days of her being reported missing. The woman had requested leave from her employer for her day off but never returned home.
Cortes added that the family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and no personal details, including the name and cause of death, will be disclosed until they permit it.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the Philippines Consulate is still waiting for the complete police report. The investigation is still ongoing whether the woman’s death was caused by accident or foul play. As the victim has been described as around 50 years old.
The Assistant Secretary has said that DFA and the Department of Migrant Workers are in touch with the OFW’s family. It is regarding the assistance that may be extended to them and also coordinating with the deceased worker’s employer regarding the possible unpaid salaries.
