Probe sought on death of Pinay maid in Hong Kong

A Filipino migrant workers group in Hong Kong is calling on the Philippine government for “a swift investigation” on the death of a Filipina maid there last month.   The United Filipinos in Hong Kong said they hope that authorities “will extend all efforts to assist the bereaved family” Gomez has left behind, and start by determining the cause of the Filipino worker’s death.   “Once it is known what really happened to Gomez, the Philippine Consulate should also do more in ensuring that Filipinos are protected from any forces that threaten our security and life,” she said.   Gomez’s remains arrived in the country last February 25, some three weeks after it was found floating off the coast of Shau Kei Wan, a town in Hong Kong, last February 5.   Following the incident, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong said the Hong Kong Police conducted an autopsy to determine the cause of death, but it has not released the results because the investigation is still ongoing.   The Consulate also called “on persons in or outside Hong Kong who may have some knowledge about Ms. Gomez to approach its offices and share any information that may prove to be valuable to the case.”   A report from Hong Kong-based news site The Sun said the Hong Kong Police ruled out foul play in the Filipina’s death, based on initial inquiries.   However, a report from radio dzBB said Gomez allegedly called and texted her relatives in the Philippines last January, and seemed scared indicating she was in danger under her current employer.   “The findings of the autopsy will establish the cause of death of the late Ms. Gomez. Should the Coroner’s Court require further investigation, a court hearing called a death inquest may be ordered. Consulate officials relayed the concerns of the deceased’s next of kin to the Hong Kong Police Force and called for a thorough investigation into her death,” it said. — ELR, GMA News