Senate probe into death of Saudi-based OFW Marjorette Garcia pushed

FILE PHOTO: Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros. Joseph B. Vidal/Senate PRIB

MANILA, Philippines — A resolution calling for an investigation of the death of Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Marjorette Garcia in Saudi Arabia was filed at the Senate.

Senator Risa Hontiveros lodged Senate Resolution No. 817, citing stronger mechanisms to protect and safeguard Filipino migrant workers.

“[A]n inquiry must be conducted to bring justice to Garcia’s family, [to ensure] that women migrant workers, who are often subjected to extensive violence, are protected and safeguarded,” she said in her resolution filed Monday.

READ: DFA seeks details on OFW Marjorette Garcia’s slay from Saudi police

Hontiveros enumerated several incidents of OFWs facing abuse and maltreatment in the Middle East, such as Constancia Dayag, who was beaten and sexually assaulted by her employer in May 2019, and Jullebee Ranara, who was murdered in January.

“In 2021, 60 percent of OFWs were women. In the same year, Overseas Workers Wel\fare Administration reported that 75 percent of the 23,986 cases of abuse included women, migrant workers,” Hontiveros pointed out, reiterating her call for “comprehensive assistance and sustainable protection” of OFWs, particularly women migrant workers.

The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed the death of Garcia on Monday, October 2.

Citing news reports, Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Migrant Workers Paul Cortes said 32-year-old Garcia died of stab wounds.

READ: DMW confirms death of OFW in Saudi; probe starts

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