OFW hailed as hero for protecting young ward during Hong Kong fire

An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is now being feted for her heroism in protecting her three-month-old ward during the massive fire that hit a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong. 

According to Saleema Refran’s report in “24 Oras” on Monday, domestic helper Rhodora Alcaraz is undergoing treatment at a hospital for her injuries.

Alcaraz and her young ward, an infant, were reportedly trapped inside a smoke-filled room for hours. 

Her former employer recalled Alcaraz’s devotion to duty and her genuine care for children.

“Iba yung care niya sa kids, iba yung pagmamahal niya sa mga alaga niya. Nakakaiyak, it’s so like her to put her life on the line for someone else, kasi very caring talaga siya,” said Rhoda Lynn Dayo. 

(Her care for the kids is different, her love for her wards is special. It’s very touching, it’s so like her to put her life on the line for someone else, because she is really a very caring person.) 

Meanwhile, other domestic helpers in Hong Kong saluted Alcaraz’s heroic act. 

“I feel sad about her but I salute her for being so good despite of this tragic incident, she did not abandon her responsibility,” said Lai Besana. 

The Philippine Consulate General Hong Kong said 89 Filipinos are safe and accounted for amid the fire, while the fate of two others is still under verification.

Earlier, the Philippine Consulate General confirmed that an OFW died in the deadliest fire that hit Hong Kong in 10 years.

Officials of the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration recently visited the family of Maryan Pascual Esteban after her passing.

The government agencies assured the family of aid in bringing her remains home and in ensuring the continued education of her 10-year-old son.

The Filipino community in Hong Kong also gathered for a Mass to pray for Esteban and other victims of the fire. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/JMA, GMA Integrated News