Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac issued a personal apology to the family of deceased overseas Filipino worker Honeylith Zamoras over the mix-up that switched the remains of Filipino workers who died in Lebanon. Cacdac spoke directly with the grieving relatives as Zamoras’ remains arrived in the city on 16 June 2026.
The secretary accompanied the arrival alongside officials from the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). He acknowledged that the error had compounded the pain of a family already in mourning, and assured them the government would not abandon them as they confront the tragedy.
Cacdac said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had directed him to convey the administration’s condolences in person and to ensure the family receives every form of assistance it needs. He handed over initial financial aid and instructed the DMW Regional Office IX and OWWA to keep providing support — financial and otherwise — while the necessary processes are completed through to Zamoras’ burial.
On the question of accountability, the agency has ordered the Labor Attaché in Lebanon to coordinate with local authorities and begin the legal steps needed to identify those responsible for the switching of the remains. The DMW maintained that it would continue monitoring the case until justice is secured for Zamoras and the other workers who died.
“Ang pinakamahalaga ngayon ay maibalik natin ang dignidad sa ating mga kababayang pumanaw at mabigyan ng kapanatagan ang kanilang mga pamilya. Kasabay nito, sisiguraduhin nating may pananagutan ang mga nagkamali at makakamit ang hustisya para sa ating mga OFW,” Cacdac said.
