The Commission is deeply saddened by the brutal and tragic death of OFW Henry John Acorda. We express our condolences and send our prayers to his family and friends.
Henry stood up for a Filipina friend in a foreign land, which has cost him his life. Henry’s courage and sacrifice is not in vain as thousands of young Slovaks have built upon his heroism and found their voice reviving and deepening discussions against violence and extremism in Slovakia. Grateful for their solidarity, we hope that this will help improve the situation of all Filipinos in Slovakia and prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
The Philippine government has extended necessary assistance to the bereaved family. We are hopeful for the swift resolution of this case given the assurance expressed by both the Philippine and Slovak government to bring the perpetrator to justice.
In the immediate, we appeal to the Slovak government to help bring Henry home to afford family and friends to mourn his passing and honor his life. ■