Overstaying FDH eludes prison

MISSING her two sons in the Philippines, a former domestic helper decided to surrender to immigration authorities after overstaying in Hong Kong for nearly two years.

Rosa M., 37, pleaded guilty to the charge of breach of condition of stay on September 17 at the Shatin Magistrates’ Courts after overstaying for one year and seven and a half months.

Magistrate Cheung Kit-yee sentenced her to two months in prison but suspended it for three years.

“You are convicted as charged and sentenced to two months suspended for three years,” Magistrate Cheung said.

“You do not have to serve the two months in prison now but if you commit any breach of the law, you will serve it plus the sentence for the new crime,” she added.

Rosa came to Hong Kong to work as a domestic helper in September 2013 but she was terminated from work in June 2014.

But instead of going home, the Filipina decided to stay in Hong Kong because she was afraid of her husband, who was abusive.

But after nearly two years, the Filipina decided to turn herself in because she already missed her two sons, aged 7 and 13.

“She is very remorseful,” her lawyer said. Rosa was glad after being told that she was given a suspended sentence, which means she can go home without going to jail.