The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that the prime suspect in the killing of overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Dafnie Nacalaban in Kuwait has reportedly confessed to the crime. This development is expected to speed up the pursuit of justice for the victim.
Nacalaban, a household service worker in Kuwait since December 2019, was reported missing by her second employer in October 2024. Her decomposed body was later discovered in the home of a Kuwaiti individual, two months after the report. The discovery was made following a tip from the suspect’s sibling to local authorities.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed the confession during a news forum, although specific details of the admission remain unclear. He emphasized the urgency of awaiting a police report to determine if the suspect will face formal charges.
The DMW disclosed that the suspect has a prior criminal record in Kuwait. Nacalaban’s family is receiving legal and logistical support, including the repatriation of her remains to the Philippines.
“We are actively seeking justice for Dafnie Nacalaban,” Cacdac said, adding that the department’s lawyers are prepared to assist Kuwaiti prosecutors.
The case reignites concerns over the safety of OFWs in Kuwait, following a series of tragic incidents over recent years. Notable cases include Jullebee Ranara in 2023, Joanna Demafelis in 2018, and Jeanelyn Villavende in 2019. These led to a temporary ban on deploying OFWs to Kuwait, which was later lifted.
