DFA to repatriate Saudi OFW who allegedly committed suicide

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is working to facilitate the repatriation of an overseas Filipino worker who was found dead in Jeddah last September.

But the Department of Foreign Affairs said it may have to wait until the investigation on the death of Joy Malab Cabansi in Saudi Arabia is concluded.

Cabansi, 28, was found dead in her employer's house in Jeddah last September 21, the DFA said.

The DFA said it is coordinating with the Overseas Workers Welfare Office (OWWA) and Cabansi's Saudi employer on the matter.

"Ms. Cabansi’s remains will be sent back to Manila once the investigation on her death is concluded," it said on its website.

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah is in constant communication with Major Rurki, chief investigator of the Amir Fawaz Police Station, on the investigation.

Initial police findings showed rope marks found on Cabansi’s neck, as well as the absence of defensive wounds and signs of struggle.

Such signs point to the cause of death as a possible suicide, the DFA said.

But the DFA said the Philippine Consulate has requested local police authorities to conduct a full and exhaustive examination on her death.

The DFA’s Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs is in contact with Cabansi’s husband Richard Sarto, as well as other members of her family