A FILIPINA domestic worker in Hong Kong was hailed for her bravery after rescuers found her shielding a three-month-old baby during a massive residential fire that claimed multiple lives and was described as the city’s worst blaze in more than seven decades.
The fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po and reached a maximum Level 5 emergency, taking two days to extinguish.
Rhodora Alcaraz, who had been in Hong Kong only for a few days, was trapped with her employers when thick smoke engulfed their unit.
According to her sister, Raychelle Loreto, Alcaraz wrapped the infant in a wet towel and held the child tightly for several hours until rescuers broke through.
The baby is now in stable condition, while Alcaraz remains in critical care. “Si Rhodora ay kasalukuyang nasa ospital sa critical condition ngunit stable at maayos ang tugon sa gamutan,” the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration said, adding that OWWA Hong Kong, the Philippine Consulate, DMW, and the Migrant Workers Office have visited her.
Alcaraz has since been recognized as a “modern-day hero” by authorities and the OFW community, who are praying for her recovery.
