Prober sees signs of foul play in death of OFW in HK

ROXAS CITY, Philippines—A Filipina domestic help who supposedly committed suicide in Hong Kong may have been a victim of foul play, according to authorities and the Filipina’s relatives in Capiz.

Dr. Noel Martinez, of the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory in Western Visayas, said he was convinced that Cherry Mae Genova did not commit suicide as reported by Hong Kong authorities.

According to reports emanating from Hong Kong, Genova jumped to her death from the 12th floor of the building where she worked.

“If she truly jumped from the 12th floor, her face or feet would be severely injured,” said Martinez, who conducted an autopsy on Genova’s body at a morgue in Tapaz, Capiz, last March 19.

Martinez said he found laceration and bruises on Genova’s body mostly on her back. Her shoulders, hips and hands were broken.

Martinez said he also found signs of sexual abuse. “I think she was sexually abused and tortured before she was thrown from the building,” said the medico-legal officer.

Genova’s family sought the help of police, refusing to believe that Genova killed herself.

“We want justice for we believe that Cherry Mae did not commit suicide,” said Genova’s mother, Lorna.

Genova’s parents, in an interview, said they were preparing letters to appeal for help from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the provincial government of Capiz.

The family also urged overseas Filipino workers in Hong Kong to rally behind the search for justice for Genova.

Genova’s remains arrived in Capiz last week.

Her relatives were expecting Genova to come home in May for the blessing of the family house that Genova was building.