Remains of OFW who died in Tai Po fire in Hong Kong arrive in Isabela
GOVERNMENT officials visiting the family of Esteban in Isabela. (OWWA FB)
JONES, Isabela – The remains of Maryan Pascual Esteban, the lone Filipino fatality in the fire that broke out in Tai Po, Hong Kong on Nov. 26, was brought home to Barangay Santa Isabel, this town, on Sunday.
The airplane carrying Esteban’s remains touched down on the runway of the Tuguegarao Airport at 9:28 a.m.
The victim’s relatives and officials of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Region 2 received the victim's remains at the airport.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the immediate provision of assistance and support to the family of the deceased overseas Filipino worker (OFW), particularly her 10-year-old child, and the fast-tracking of documents to ensure the prompt repatriation of her remains.
The OWWA Region 2 headed by Director Virsie B. Tamayao has deployed a team to closely assist Esteban’s family here, ensuring continuous aid and psychosocial support. The agency has already released ₱50,000 in immediate financial assistance.
OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne M. Caunan is scheduled to personally visit Esteban’s wake to convey the agency’s condolences and turn over ₱220,000 in death and burial benefits, as well as ₱15,000 under the Emergency Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP).
The local government of Jones led by Mayor Nhel C. Montano is also extending assistance to ensure proper coordination and support for the bereaved family.
The DMW and OWWA assured the family of Esteban of their continued support in recognition of her sacrifice as an overseas Filipino worker.