Filipino migrant workers in Hong Kong typically headline the news whenever they get in a difficult position against their employer or fall victim to various kinds of scams.
Unfortunate as this may seem, these kinds of events show us a glimpse of what these workers go through as they seek better work opportunities overseas, and draw a clear view for help and attention from Philippine and Hong Kong authorities, who are responsible for the welfare of these migrant workers, who are also considered as legal residents of the city.
Filipina Worker Falls from Apartment Building in Alleged Suicide Case
In relation to this, a 31-year-old Filipina domestic worker reportedly fell from a building in Cheung Sha Wan around 1pm on Monday (Jul 15), in what authorities claim as an apparent case of suicide. The Filipina worker was declared dead at the scene, as shared in a report by the Sun HK.
The victim, whose initials were V.R.M, was single and a native of Tibiao, Antique, as reported by a neighbour to authorities that came to the scene. V.R.M. was the only girl in the family, and was their sole breadwinner, as well.
Local newspaper reports concluded that the suicide case was due to a “relationship problem” but this could not be confirmed by the victim’s neighbour.
Furthermore, a police spokeswoman revealed that no suicide note was found from the victim, and her death had been classified as “accidentally falling from a height.” A post mortem will be conducted within the week, authorities noted.
According to the spokeswoman’s report, the victim had fallen from a building in Mei Foo Sun Chuen Estate in Cheung Sha Wan. Meanwhile, a 31-year-old construction worker surnamed Lee, who had called the police after hearing a loud sound, was the first person who saw her lifeless body lying on the pavement.
The spokeswoman also noted that as per initial investigations, no suspicious circumstances were considered.
According to the neighbor’s victim, V.R.M. had only worked for one employer for the past four years. Also, the victim’s aunt reportedly worked with her for the same employer.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family of the victim, and hope for her body’s speedy repatriation to those who wait for her back home.
It’s quite unfortunate to note that some people do give in to the pressures and burden of their problems in life. However, please do know that there are people who are willing to help, but we must make the first step, which is to recognize that we need help, in order to get through difficult situations in life.