Relatives seek justice, truth in death of Australia-based OFW

The dream of Agriculture graduate Jerwin Royupa of finding gainful employment abroad was cut short after he died in an accident, according to the report of Vonne Aquino for Saksi.

The 21-year-old left his hometown of Calasiao in Pangasinan last February to work at a farm in Australia.

However, less than a month passed the relatives said Jerwin dropped a hint that he was experiencing some difficulties at work and that his employer also took his passport.

Jerwin then decided to return to the Philippines by the end of March.

However, his employers got in touch with his family to inform them that Jerwin had died.

They were told that Jerwin died after he jumped off a moving vehicle.

"Nasa ospital daw 'yung kapatid ko. Naaksidente at kritikal daw. He suffered critical bleeding sa head, chest and his abdomen," said Jerwin's sister, Jamaica Buraga.

Jerwin's family cast doubt over the cause of death.

"Hindi niya gagawin 'yung ganoong bagay sa sarili niya na saktan 'yung sarili niya," his relative said.

"Mayroon po kaming usapan ni Jerwin na March 30 and binook na flight so paano mangyayari na March 14 ihahatid na siya?" she asked.

Jamaica said they wanted one of the siblings to participate in the investigation into the case and to file the appropriate charges against her brother's employer.

"Gusto rin po sana namin na mapapunta 'yung kapatid naming isa for the investigation and filing of charges against the employer. Hindi po talaga kami naniniwala na gagawin, niya 'yon" she added.

Pangasinan Provincial Employment services Officer Alex Ferrer said they will recommend the case and endorse it to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Workers' Welfare Organization. — BAP, GMA News