Abused OFW appeals for repatriation

A Filipino worker in Kuwait has sought urgent help to return home after suffering abuse at the hands of her employer.

Mary Jane Cabangon, 33, has worked as a domestic helper in Kuwait the past three years. She reached out through DAILY TRIBUNE’s digital show, Usapang OFW, after nearly a month in a shelter following her rescue.

Cabangon recounted that what began as minor misunderstandings with her employer eventually escalated into physical abuse, culminating in her being forcibly thrown out of the house. Despite the ordeal, she stayed for a while, fearing that her employer might press charges against her for “running away.”

She also revealed that during her employment she had to buy her own food, as her employer did not provide for her basic needs.

Cabangon said she has repeatedly reached out to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait, and her recruitment agency for updates on her repatriation — but she has been told to wait, with no clear date for her return.

“It’s not just me,” she said. “Many Filipino workers are stranded in shelters, waiting for proper assistance and action from the agencies that are supposed to help us.”

The Usapang OFW program assured it will refer her case to the proper authorities to fast-track her repatriation and ensure her safe return to the Philippines.