Marites Aquino Castillo, Friends of the Mariana Islands president, said Laoeng, 60, was one of their active members and their group is now raising funds for the repatriation expenses.
“He loved Saipan and embraced the people he worked with,” Castillo said.
She said she was authorized by Michael Stroh, Laoeng’s son-in-law who resides in the U.S., to accept donations so they could send the body of Laoeng to the Philippines for burial.
Stroh, who is married to Laoeng’s daughter Wilma, sent the authorization letter dated Oct. 11.
Laoeng worked with Matson Consulting as a building maintenance crew member. He died on Oct. 9.
He had lived in the CNMI for 20 years and had four children.
Castillo said she already coordinated with the Philippine Consulate General about the repatriation of Laoeng’s body.
Philippine welfare officer Rey Tayag said the family of Laoeng can obtain benefits from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
An OWWA member is entitled to receive 100,000 pesos, or $2,300, if the death is due to natural causes, and a burial benefit of 20,000 pesos or $461.
Variety learned that Laoeng’s girlfriend Melycia Marquez has been asking for donations since his death.
Castillo is now asking Marquez to turn over her collections so they can immediately arrange the repatriation of the body.
She said the Friends of the Marinas Island and Matson Consulting will also provide assistance.
“As far as we know, Marquez was able to raise $1,600,” she said, adding that they need $3,500 for the repatriation expenses.
Those who would like to donate can call Marites Aquino Castillo at 285-8980.
