FILIPINA BEATEN TO DEATH IN SLOVENIA, HUSBAND SUSPECT NOW IN POLICE CUSTODY

A 27-YEAR-OLD Filipina was murdered in Slovenia, reports on Saturday said.

Marvil Facturan-Kocjančič, 27, was allegedly beaten to death by her Slovenian husband, Mitja Kocjančič, while on holiday vacation in Bled, Slovenia on Dec. 29, 2024.

The incident occurred shortly after her arrival in the country to reunite with her spouse for the holidays.

Her husband, who based on investigation by Slovenian authorities has a history of mental health concerns, has been arrested and placed in a psychiatric facility.

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) condemned the brutal murder of Facturan-Kocjančič.

The CFO said it would continue to advocate for the rights of Filipinos abroad, and urged those experiencing domestic violence and other types of abuse to reach out for support.

“Overseas-based Filipinos married to other nationalities or with foreign partners, who experienced any acts of trafficking, domestic violence, and abuse, may contact the CFO, 1343 Actionline against Human Trafficking, or the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for assistance,” it said.

The CFO has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Filipino emigrants and has urged those experiencing domestic abuse to seek help immediately.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Sunday said it is making arrangements for the repatriation of  the victim’s remains to her family in the Philippines.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, which oversees Slovenia, is coordinating the repatriation efforts.

De Vega added that the autopsy on the victim had been completed and the embassy was in touch with the victim’s mother.

“The Philippine government condemns this tragic incident and expresses its heartfelt condolences to the victim’s bereaved family in the Philippines,” said the Foreign Affairs Undersecretary.

“The Philippine Embassy in Vienna is working with the Slovenian authorities not only for the repatriation of the victim, but towards the attainment of justice,” he added.

Senator Imee Marcos urged the government to ensure justice will be served for the Filipina who was allegedly killed by her Slovenian husband shortly after their wedding.

“I condemn in the strongest terms the murder of our kababayan, Marvil Facturan—Kocjančič, in Slovenia,” Marcos said.

“Domestic violence has no place in a civilized society. The Philippines must never tolerate incidence of domestic violence, here and abroad,” she added.

Marcos called on the DFA, the CFO, and other relevant government agencies “to see to it that justice prevails and that the necessary assistance is given to the family of Marvil Facturan—Kocjančič during this difficult time.”

She also called on the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) “to intensify their efforts in quelling violence against women and children and other forms of domestic violence.”