A Filipino professor working at the University of Benghazi in Libya was found dead in his apartment.
Joel Valete, 33, was found lifeless with hands and feet bound and mouth gagged. He also suffered from a head injury.
According to assistant secretary Charles Jose of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine embassy in Tripoli confirmed Valete’s death. They are waiting for the clearance to repatriate his remains to the Philippines.
Initial investigation showed no forced entry into Valete’s apartment.
Valete is the breadwinner of the family and his brother Jess is appealing for help.
“Sana mabigyan ng katarungan ang pagkamatay ng kapatid ko kasi lubos kaming nasaktan sa ngayon. Dahil hanggang ngayon, wala pa yung bangkay niya sa Pilipinas,” Jess said.
According to DFA’s advisory, Libya remains under Alert Level 3 or voluntary repatriation among Filipinos based in the country with the government shouldering repatriation costs.