Mary Anne Esteban, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) from Jones, Isabela, was killed in the massive fire that engulfed a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong, just days before she was set to return home for Christmas.
Her son now dreams of becoming a firefighter, so no one else will have to lose a mother the way he lost his.
Esteban, 40, worked in Hong Kong for nine years after spending 10 years in Lebanon.
She was set to return home on December 16 to be with her family and reunite with her 10-year-old son in Rizal.
Her father, Jaime, expressed grief over the timing of her death, which fell near his birthday, saying they could not prepare for a celebration now due to the tragedy.
"Mas mabilis koma a maiyawid tapno makitami mit, baka abot 3 weeks kunana," he added.
(I hope they can hasten the return of her remains. I hope they can do it in three weeks)
SUPPORT
OWWA and DMW have already extended assistance to Mary Anne’s son in Cainta, ensuring the OFW’s remains will be repatriated to the Philippines quickly.
Her son will also receive educational support through college.
OWWA encouraged the child to finish school to honor his mother’s wishes.
When asked what he wants to be when he grows up, the boy answered: to be a firefighter.
DEADLY FIRE
The fire killed 151 people and left over 40 missing. Lines of mourners stretched for more than a kilometer as they offered flowers, stuffed toys, and even pet food to honor the victims.
Amid the grief, many called for justice. Some victims were found on staircases and rooftops, while authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blaze, the deadliest in Hong Kong in 77 years.
At least 13 people have already been arrested for manslaughter. Investigators are examining flammable materials, such as bamboo scaffolding wrapped in mesh, foam insulation, and malfunctioning fire alarms, which may have fueled the rapid spread of the fire.
ACTS OF HEROISM
Acts of heroism also emerged. Filipino worker Rhodora Alcaraz is being praised for rescuing her employer’s three-month-old baby, despite risking her own life.
She is still receiving treatment in the hospital as of press time.
The Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong reported that nine Filipinos survived the fire.
The consulate is providing relief goods, counseling, and assistance to OFWs who lost documents, while the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will provide cash aid.
