Advertisement
Lunar newsletter: Death of a Filipino helper, glamorous grannies and more
- Lunar is a weekly curated selection of news, interviews and features dedicated to celebrating women in Asia and sharing stories that matter
2-MIN READ2-MIN
Lorain Asuncion was a domestic worker in Hong Kong. But in July 2017, she fell to her death from an apartment building in mainland China.
Three years on, there is no closure for her family, who are still filled with questions about what happened to the 28-year-old.
Hong Kong has about 400,000 foreign domestic helpers, and experts say dozens of workers like Asuncion are pressured by employers and agencies and taken – illegally – across the border.
Advertisement
There has been little evidence of punishment for those who flout the rules, while the workers often find their hands tied when it comes to seeking help.
Advocates are calling for new legislation, as well as for the workers’ home countries to offer better protection of their citizens.
Advertisement
In Asuncion’s case, lawyers are seeking financial compensation for her family. “We are hoping and praying that someday we will find an answer,” said her sister.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Select Speed
1.00x