President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday paid tribute to an overseas Filipino worker who risked her life to save a three-month-old infant during a massive fire that swept through a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong.
Speaking at the launch of new facilities at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, Marcos said he personally met Rhodora Alcaraz, a domestic helper who protected the baby under her care amid the blaze.
“Sa kabila ng panganib na kanyang hinarap ay pinili niyang iligtas ang sanggol na kanyang inaalagaan. Pinapakita nito ang likas na malasakit ng Pilipino sa kanyang kapwa,” the President said.
Marcos assured that the government is providing full support to overseas Filipino workers, especially during emergencies. Personnel from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong, the Department of Migrant Workers, and the Migrant Workers Office checked on Alcaraz while she was confined in a Hong Kong hospital. OWWA also visited her family in the Philippines to assure them of assistance.
One OFW died in the incident, while 89 others were reported safe and accounted for.