Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III confirmed that the provincial government has mobilized assistance for the family of overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Mary Anne De Vera following reports of her passing abroad, describing her as a selfless Filipina who put others’ safety before her own.
In an exclusive interview on Dos Por Dos of DZRH, Guico said the provincial government immediately coordinated with local and national agencies to ensure support reaches her family in Basista, Pangasinan.
“Noong nabalitaan po namin kahapon, inatasan po namin ang provincial employment services officer namin na makipag-ugnayan sa pamilya ni Mary Anne, taga-Basista po sila,” Guico said. He added that the Provincial Employment Services Office (PESO) was directed to work closely with the local government unit (LGU) of Basista to identify De Vera’s barangay and establish direct communication with her relatives.
This coordination aims to streamline assistance and serve as a link for the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Guico emphasized that the provincial government stands ready to assist beyond initial coordination. “Meron po kaming binibigay na financial assistance at siyempre may parangal din through a resolution coming from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan,” he said.
He added that the province is also prepared to extend educational support to De Vera’s children, including possible scholarships at the province’s local university. “Kung ano pa pong tulong na puwede naming maibigay sa pamilya ay ibibigay po ng probinsya,” he assured, noting that details about the number of children she left behind were still being verified.
The governor also underscored the crucial role of the LGU in ensuring swift response. By directing PESO to coordinate immediately with Basista officials, the provincial government aims to facilitate documentation, social welfare assistance, and potential benefits from national agencies. Guico said this local intervention ensures that De Vera’s family will not have to navigate the process alone during a time of grief.
Guico further cited the support extended by the Israeli government to OFWs in past incidents, recalling a similar case in San Jacinto, Pangasinan, where assistance for the bereaved family reportedly included long-term educational aid for the children. He shared that even years after the incident, Israeli officials continued to check on the beneficiaries. As the province awaits further details surrounding De Vera’s passing, Guico reiterated that Pangasinan will honor her sacrifice and stand firmly behind her family.
