Home Conflict DMW Investigates Repatriation Error of Fallen OFW’s Remains

DMW Investigates Repatriation Error of Fallen OFW’s Remains

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac PNA photo

MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is currently investigating a troubling incident involving the repatriation of the remains of overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Jenny Alvarado from Kuwait. The case has raised serious concerns about possible legal liabilities following a mix-up that resulted in the return of the wrong remains.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac expressed his deep apologies to the Alvarado family during an ambush interview in Makati City on Tuesday. “I take full responsibility dahil ako rin ang nagsabi na agaran ang pagpapauwi ni Jenny, which might have caused the mistake,” he stated, acknowledging his directive for the expedited repatriation.

Jenny Alvarado, along with two other foreign workers, tragically lost her life on January 2 due to coal suffocation after inhaling smoke from a malfunctioning heating system in their workplace. However, when her remains arrived in the Philippines on January 10, the Alvarado family discovered a shocking error—the remains were not Jenny’s.

Cacdac elaborated on the situation, stating, “What happened was that I gave a directive to speed up her repatriation. Our private shipping service provider conducted the repatriation of remains, but the specified cadaver was different, even though it was under Jenny’s name. So, there is a mistake.”

The DMW chief assured the grieving family that they would obtain police and autopsy reports to determine the next steps. “Rest assured, I have also guaranteed to the family that we will pursue any legal claims if our lawyer finds possible liability by anyone involved in the mistake,” he said.

In a further commitment to the family, Cacdac confirmed that Jenny’s actual remains are set to arrive on Thursday. This incident underscores the critical need for diligence and accuracy in handling the repatriation of deceased workers, a solemn responsibility that weighs heavily on the shoulders of the DMW.

As the investigation unfolds, the Alvarado family is left grappling with their loss, compounded by the distressing confusion surrounding their loved one’s remains.