October 17, 2025 — Manila, Philippines
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the employment contracts of two overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were recently reported missing in Hong Kong have been terminated by their employer.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said in a media update that Imee Pabuaya and Aleli Tibay were dismissed after failing to report for work for several consecutive days. Their employer decided to terminate their contracts even after the two were found safe by Hong Kong authorities.
According to reports, Pabuaya and Tibay were discovered after they got lost while hiking along a trail area in Hong Kong. Cacdac said the DMW will still coordinate with their employer to determine if the termination decision is final before arranging their possible repatriation to the Philippines.
Both OFWs have been declared physically well and have already completed medical examinations, the DMW confirmed.
The employer initially reported the two missing on October 4, after repeated attempts to contact them failed. It was later revealed, based on statements from Pabuaya’s family, that the two are reportedly in a romantic relationship.
Secretary Cacdac assured that the DMW is working closely with the Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong to provide assistance, including legal advice, repatriation arrangements, and post-employment support for the affected workers.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and protection of overseas Filipino workers, especially in situations involving employment disputes or unexpected incidents abroad.