COTABATO CITY, December 18, 2025 — The lifeless body of Overseas Bangsamoro Worker (OBW) Geralin Wacan arrived at Awang Airport in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, last Friday, December 12, marking a somber return after her untimely death in Kuwait on November 23. Authorities confirmed the cause of death as cardiac arrest.
MOLE Director Annuarudin Tayuan of the Ministry of Labor and Employment–Overseas Workers Welfare Bureau (MOLE-OWWB) personally turned over Wacan’s remains to her grieving family and extended the ministry’s condolences. The family, led by Wacan’s husband, Heron Panegas, brought her body to their home in Barangay Kudarangan, Nabalawag Municipality in the Special Geographic Area (SGA), accompanied by MOLE officials.
Sources close to the family reported that Wacan’s employer had treated her with kindness and even offered her the opportunity to join a voluntary Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Tragically, she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, compounded by complications, cutting short her life far from home.
The family expressed deep gratitude for the smooth repatriation process, citing the coordinated efforts of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and MOLE under Minister Muslimin “Bapa Mus” Sema. “The cooperation of the employer and government agencies gave us closure in the midst of our grief,” said Panegas.
Wacan’s family is now entitled to benefits and assistance programs provided by the government, contingent on completing the necessary documentation.
Her death underscores the harsh realities faced by thousands of OBWs who leave their homes and loved ones to seek better opportunities abroad. Beyond long hours, separation from family, and exposure to unfamiliar environments, OBWs often face health risks, workplace challenges, and, in some cases, life-threatening situations far from home.
“The story of Geralin Wacan reminds us of the immense sacrifices Bangsamoro workers make daily,” said a MOLE official. “Even in death, it is our duty to uphold their dignity and ensure their families are supported.”
As the community mourns Wacan’s passing, her story serves as a solemn reminder of both the promise and peril inherent in overseas employment—and the critical role of institutions in safeguarding the welfare of migrant workers at every stage of their journey.