PHILIPPINES: A 27-year-old Overseas Filipino Worker in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia was found dead with multiple stab wounds, with authorities now identifying a suspect in the case, according to a video featured on Raffy Tulfo in Action (RTIA) official YouTube channel.
The victim, Joseph John Gacusan, was discovered lifeless inside his room on January 2, after his girlfriend, Maryjoy Cabubas, also an OFW, reported the incident to his family.
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Family seeks help through RTIA
Joseph’s parents, Eliza and Juanito Gacusan, sought help from RTIA on January 21, asking for assistance in investigating their son’s death.
At that time, initial information shared by the girlfriend suggested the case could be a suicide. However, the family raised doubts and pointed to possible foul play.
They also shared that Maryjoy had previously sent threatening messages to Joseph, including statements that raised concern about his safety.
Investigation leads to suspect
During the RTIA episode, Senator Raffy Tulfo contacted the manpower agency linked to Joseph. Officials confirmed that Jeddah authorities were already conducting an investigation, but no suspect had been named at that time.
The case later developed.
By February 15, a memorandum from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) identified Maryjoy Cabubas as the primary suspect. On the same day, Joseph’s remains were returned to the Philippines.
As of the latest update shared on RTIA, the suspect is now detained in Jeddah.
Witness and evidence emerge
A witness, identified only as “John,” reportedly came forward. He claimed that the suspect personally admitted to the killing and described how it was carried out.
The witness also said he received a photo of the alleged weapon used in the crime.
Authorities are now looking into these details as part of the ongoing case.
DMW steps in
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac earlier assured that the agency would closely monitor the case. A labor attaché and legal support have been assigned to coordinate with Saudi authorities.
Officials said assistance will also be extended to the victim’s family, including financial aid and benefits through government programs.