The remains of Jelyn Arguzon, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who reportedly died of natural causes in Saudi Arabia, were repatriated to the Philippines on Tuesday, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio, along with Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Deputy Administrator Mary Melanie Quiño, was present to receive Arguzon’s body upon its arrival.
In a statement, OWWA announced that Ignacio has committed to assisting Arguzon’s family with transporting her remains from the airport to their home province of Aurora, following the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Arguzon began her employment in Saudi Arabia on June 16, but soon reported mistreatment by her employers. By June 28, her family lost contact with her, leading them to seek help from OWWA on July 19. She was later confirmed dead on July 29, with autopsy results citing natural causes as the reason for her death.
However, Arguzon’s family is requesting a second autopsy in the Philippines to verify the actual cause of her death. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has stated that they will consider urging the Saudi Arabian government to file charges against Arguzon’s employer if evidence of foul play is found.