OFW dies after being beaten up in Slovakia

MANILA, Philippines — An overseas Filipino worker in Slovakia has died a few days after he was badly beaten up and kicked in the head last May 26 in the capital Bratislava, an embassy report said.

Citing a report of the Philippine embassy in Vienna, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday Henry John Acorda, 36, employee of a multinational company, died last May 31 at the University Hospital Ru?jnov.

Acorda was beaten up by two men when he tried to defend a couple of women they were harassing in the streets. Reports added that the two men kicked Acorda in the head as he lay on the ground.

A 28-year-old Slovakian man was taken into custody in connection with the incident and has been charged with manslaughter.

The Philippine embassy said its Assistance to Nationals Section and the Philippine consulate in Bratislava are assisting Acorda’s mother, brother and sister who flew to Slovakia to look after him.

The consulate has discussed Acorda’s case with local lawyers while the embassy will also be assisting the family in the repatriation of Acorda’s remains.

Reports said Acorda’s death has triggered outrage across Slovakia.