Family of slain OFW in Kuwait demands justice

DAVAO CITY – The family of Dafnie Nacalaban, a 35-year-old overseas Filipino worker (OFW) from Barangay Dansolinon, Cagayan de Oro City, is calling on the Philippine government to ensure justice for her tragic death in Kuwait.

Nacalaban, a mother to a 14-year-old child, was reported missing in October 2024. On December 31, her decomposed body was discovered through information provided by the brother of her suspected killer, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

While Kuwaiti authorities have arrested the suspect, no formal charges have been filed as of yet.

Her sister, Michael Roxanne Nacalaban Linsahan, expressed shock and heartbreak upon learning of her death. “We could not believe it. She regularly called us, and the last time we heard from her was on October 29, 2024, when she said she would come home for Christmas,” he shared.

Dafnie worked in Kuwait for five years, supporting her family back home. Known as the seventh of eight siblings, her sister described Dafnie as a shy yet hardworking family member.

The Nacalaban family is appealing for Dafnie’s remains to be repatriated so she can be laid to rest beside her parents. However, DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac explained that the process may take time as her case remains under investigation by Kuwaiti authorities.

The family has urged the Philippine and Kuwaiti governments to expedite the investigation and ensure the suspect faces justice.

This tragic incident has reignited concerns about the safety of OFWs, particularly domestic workers, in the Middle East. Advocates and migrant workers’ groups are once again calling for stricter monitoring and protective measures for Filipinos working abroad.