OFW group seeks probe of teen maid's death in UAE

MANILA, Philippines - A group representing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) called on the Department of Foreign Affairs yesterday to investigate the reported death of a 19-year-old Filipina who worked as a domestic helper in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Migrante-Middle East regional coordinator John Leonard Monterona said Philippine authorities, including officials of the Philippine embassy in the UAE, should probe the case of Rahima Jamal, who allegedly died of unexplained head and body injuries.

“This is a matter of concern to us and the Filipino community in the Emirates since her death has not been reported by the employer to the Philippine embassy; foul play is not remote,” he said.

Monterona said the Philippine government should not stop investigating the true circumstances leading to Jamal’s death and that the DFA should inform the family and extend the necessary assistance.

He said Jamal’s death occurred amid assurances by the host government that a new law has been passed to protect expatriate workers.   –