A Filipina high school teacher from Camarines Sur died following a tragic two-vehicle crash in New Zealand. Her family has launched an online fundraiser to cover the costs of bringing her remains back to the Philippines.
Mia de los Santos-O’Riley confirmed on Facebook that her sister, Joyce Fesico, lost her life in the accident that occurred Sunday afternoon on Crown Range Road near Queenstown. Fesico, who was known as “Madoy” within her family, was in New Zealand for her niece’s wedding.
Reports from local media, including NZ Herald and Stuff, detailed that the incident prompted an extensive emergency response, involving four helicopters, four ambulances, a rapid response unit, and a major incident support team. Seven people were treated at the scene, with four airlifted to Dunedin Hospital due to serious and moderate injuries. The others, who sustained moderate to minor injuries, were taken by road to Queenstown hospital.
O’Riley shared a crowdfunding link on Give A Little, where more details about Fesico’s life and the family’s goals can be found. Fesico, who was set to retire in January 2025, was described by her sister as “kind, considerate, chill, and funny.”
“She was the mediator, the most sensible, practical go-to person in our household,” O’Riley shared. “She is musically talented, loves Korean drama, and gardening.”
Fesico had refrained from sharing her travel experiences on social media out of respect for her hometown, which had been struck by severe flooding just a week prior. Her family said this was a testament to her thoughtfulness.
The fundraiser has so far raised $6,300 NZD (approximately P219,000). The collected funds will be used for repatriation and funeral expenses, with any surplus going to Fesico’s immediate family.
Authorities in New Zealand are conducting an investigation into the accident to prevent future incidents. Two other family members were also injured in the crash, according to O’Riley. The family hopes to bring Fesico home within two weeks, pending the completion of necessary documentation.
