DoLE sympathizes over Pinay seafarer’s death

The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) on Friday extended sympathy over the recent death of a Filipina seafarer working in Barbados.

A report from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) disclosed that Mariah Jocson, a 28-year seafarer took her own life as she waited to be repatriated to the Philippines.

“We note that Mariah, 28-years-old, an assistant waiter for the cruise ship Rhapsody of the Seas, was found lifeless in her cabin on board the ship Harmony of the Seas in Barbados, where she was transferred for repatriation purposes,” Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said in a statement.

According to Bello, Jocson “set sail as a proud OFW last March 2019” bringing all the hopes and dreams of any young Filipino.

“We share the grief of the family of Filipino seafarer Mariah Jocson,” he said.

“Her loss brings us heartbreak and grief, and we express our deepest sympathies, prayers and support to her family,” Bello added.

In line, the labor chief said he has already directed the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the concerned licensed manning agency (LMA) to immediately get in touch with the family of seafarer Jocson and assure them of all the support, assistance and benefits.

On the other hand, Bello noted how Jocson’s “untimely passing” highlighted the need to heighten greater awareness and advocacy on psycho-social needs and mental wellness of the OFW awaiting repatriation.

“First of all, we must find ways to facilitate their return. Second, an array of counselling and helpline services should always be available to our OFW, especially those still onboard cruise ships,” he said.

Following the death of a Filipino worker who also committed suicide at a Philippine Overseas Labor Office shelter in Lebanon last 24 May, Jocson’s death was the second among OFW who are supposed to be repatriated back to the country due to the coronavirus pandemic.