The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has initiated an investigation into the death of Jenny Alvarado, an overseas Filipino worker in Kuwait, amid suspicions of foul play. The probe was announced by DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac during a forum at the Manila Hotel on Friday. Alvarado’s body was repatriated to the Philippines and arrived in Parañaque City on Thursday evening.
Secretary Cacdac revealed that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is performing an autopsy on Alvarado’s remains to determine the cause of death. Her employer claimed that she died due to coal suffocation from inhaling smoke from a heating system at their workplace. However, Cacdac expressed skepticism about this account, noting that the death certificate he reviewed listed ‘cardiac arrest’ as the cause of death, a common but nonspecific entry.
The absence of an autopsy in Kuwait has fueled suspicions, prompting the Philippine government to conduct its own investigation. Cacdac emphasized the need to validate the employer’s claim and investigate any potential organ damage consistent with coal suffocation. The NBI’s findings, expected over the weekend, will help determine if foul play was involved.
In addition to the investigation into Alvarado’s death, the DMW is also looking into a separate issue where the wrong body was repatriated under Alvarado’s name. Cacdac stated that the government is seriously addressing this mix-up and considering legal action against those responsible, including the employer and the service provider involved. He assured Alvarado’s family that the government is committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability for any negligence or wrongdoing.