The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) vowed on Thursday to seek justice for the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who had been missing and was found dead and buried late last month in Kuwait.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said in a television interview that a lawyer in Kuwait was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Kuwaiti officials.

The body of the OFW, identified as Dafnie Nacalaban, was discovered buried in her employer’s yard, already in an advanced state of decomposition.

Nacalaban’s brother said she had been planning to return home last December. However, she was reported missing by her employer in October. She last communicated with her family in May.

Cacdac confirmed that a suspect, who had a criminal record, was in the custody of Kuwaiti authorities. The motive for the crime is unknown and is currently under investigation.

“Our lawyer on the ground is coordinating and monitoring, together with our embassy in Kuwait and Kuwaiti officials,” Cacdac said.

He added the department is assisting the family of Nacalaban to ensure that justice is served.

Cacdac said they have been in communication with the victim’s family, including her husband and child. He said the body of Nacalaban was still in the custody of Kuwaiti authorities.

“We are still waiting for the investigation to be completed, and once it is cleared, we will bring her remains home to her family,” Cacdac said.

“We conveyed our utmost condolences to them and offered our assistance, which includes repatriation, legal help, and support for her family, especially her minor child,” Cacdac said.