PGMA assures justice for OFW maltreated in Singapore
President Arroyo yesterday assured the family of a former Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who was maltreated in Singapore that they will have justice.
And, accompanying the government’s assurance, is a check for P50,000 from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, to help in the treatment of Lea Taronas, a former domestic helper from Guimbal town who experienced harsh treatment from her employers in Singapore.
A tearful Daniel, husband of Taronas, thanked the President and Iloilo Representative Janette Garin for the assistance.
Taronas, Mrs. Arroyo pointed out, is one of the 8 million Filipinos working abroad, their dollar remittances helping in keeping the country afloat.
“Although only a few of them have problems, it is important that the government must help them with their problem,” she said.
Arroyo tasked Garin to look after Taronas’ recovery, and to assist the family in pursuing legal action against her employer.
Taronas is now confined at the Western Visayas Medical Center, undergoing treatment for illnesses and injuries that were the result of her employer’s maltreatment. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration is shouldering her bills.
She was beaten up, slapped often, stepped upon, Lea’s husband Daniel told The News Today. Her employees also burned her in the face and back using an iron, Daniel added.
The beating started four months after she arrived in Singapore March last year. She endured it for over a year, Daniel said.
Upon knowing of her wife’s experience at the hands of her employers, Daniel sought the help of Garin for Taronas’ repatriation.
Taronas returned to the country July 8, 2009. She was immediately admitted to the hospital the day after.
“My wife used to be fat. When she returned to the country, she was emaciated,” Daniel said in a radio interview.
James Mendiola, the OWWA regional director, said that they will wait until Taronas has completely recovered before they will pursue legal actions against her Singaporean employers.
For now, the OWWA will take care of Taronas’ expenses, Mendiola said. He also added that they have coordinated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the livelihood assistance for Taronas and her husband.