PAO offers legal aid to kin of footwear factory workers who died in fire

FAMILIES of the 72 workers who died in the fire that destroyed a footwear factory in Valenzuela City will be provided legal aid by the Public Attorney’s Office.

PAO chief Persida Acosta said she talked to Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian on Tuesday to offer free legal assistance.

“We will discuss with the families their legal options at the City Hall,” Acosta said.

The families could take criminal or civil action, she said.

PAO has also coordinated with Senior Supt. Emmanuel Aranas, Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory deputy chief for operation, to help identify victims.

“In the event that some of the bodies will not be identified with DNA testing, we can tap the PAO forensic laboratory,” she said.

PAO could conduct forensic anthropology or examine the skeletal remains of the victims, Acosta said.

Through forensic anthropology, the age, sex, stature and genetic heritage of a person could be determined, she explained. SFM/AC