By Marita Moaje
MANILA – An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is receiving various forms of assistance from the Philippine government after suffering a miscarriage during a flight bound for South Korea.
In a news release on Tuesday evening, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said its Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Seoul is extending comprehensive aid to the OFW and her family.
“A clear directive by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is to always ensure the safety and well-being of our OFWs, especially in times of their utmost need,” said Cacdac.
The Korea Herald reported that the OFW, who is in her mid-30s, experienced complications mid-flight while transiting through Incheon on their way to Saipan.
It said operators from South Korea’s emergency hotline 119 received a report that a premature baby was born inside the plane, and was not breathing.
Upon arrival at Incheon Airport, she was rushed by a 119 rescue team to INHA University Hospital, but doctors pronounced the baby’s death upon arrival.
The OFW was traveling with her husband, child, and mother-in-law from Clark International Airport.
The DMW said South Korean authorities are investigating the exact circumstances of the miscarriage.
The department confirmed that the OFW is now in stable physical condition.
Cacdac said the DMW is covering the medical expenses, offering emotional support, and assisting in all legal and logistical matters related to the incident.
Meanwhile, the DMW is also helping the family comply with the required autopsy by the Incheon police and is facilitating the repatriation of the baby’s remains, in coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Seoul. (PNA)
