CHR condemns brutal killing of OFW in Kuwait

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Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday decried the brutal killing of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Kuwait.

The emphasized in a statement that “one death is too many” and there are many OFWs seeking refuge in shelters and awaiting repatriation.

This after the charred body of Jullebee Ranara, 35, was found in the desert of Kuwait on Sunday.

Based on the initial investigation report of local Kuwait authorities, the suspect is the 17-year-old son of Ranara’s employers who is currently in their custody.

The CHR has joined the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in monitoring the progress of the case and echoed the calls for the swift dispensation of justice against the perpetrator.

“The Commission acknowledges the swift action of DMW, through Secretary Susan Ople, who met with Jullebee’s family and guaranteed necessary assistance from the government,” it said.

The Department of Migrant Workers also condemned on Monday the killing even as they urged the Kuwaiti government to work on the case’s early resolution and bring the perpetrators to justice.

DMW Secretary also visited and personally condoled with the victim’s relatives and informed them that the department will provide them all the necessary support they need at this time of grief.

In 2018, CHR urged the national government to “reflect and adopt the necessary reforms to strengthen and uphold the rights of migrant workers, especially those working as domestic workers,” following the death of seven overseas Filipinos also working in Kuwait then.

“It is clear that full implementation of employment standards—including safe working conditions, timely remuneration, and protection from maltreatment—in line with migrants’ human rights, must be demanded by the Philippines from foreign employers and other States,” the commission said.

It also noted that common approaches such as information sharing, access to legal aid and quick response protocols are of immense help to OFWs especially when faced with threatening circumstances.