In the wake of a heartbreaking event where Filipina Marvil Facturan-Kocjančič was allegedly murdered by her Slovenian husband during a holiday in Bled, Slovenia, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has strongly recommended that Filipinos planning to marry or already engaged to foreigners participate in its Guidance and Counseling Program (GCP) before relocating abroad. The incident, which occurred on December 29, 2024, has prompted the CFO to reiterate the importance of its program, which is mandatory for those intending to settle permanently overseas with foreign spouses.
The CFO emphasized that the GCP is designed to equip Filipinos with crucial knowledge and mental preparation to navigate the challenges of living abroad, including potential risks like domestic violence, human trafficking, and cultural differences. The program, backed by Republic Act 9208 and Republic Act 10906, aims to safeguard the well-being of Filipino marriage migrants.
Although the GCP is not mandatory for tourists like Marvil, who traveled to Slovenia on a tourist visa, the CFO noted that participation in the program could have provided her with insights into potential dangers, such as checking if her spouse had a criminal background. The program includes counseling sessions and may recommend further counseling based on individual needs.
Following the tragic death of Marvil, the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, responsible for Slovenia, is collaborating with Slovenian authorities to ensure justice and facilitate the repatriation of her remains. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has condemned the killing and extended condolences to Marvil’s family, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.