Philippines’ Duterte sacks ambassador caught maltreating home helper

Manila March 2, (dpa/GNA) – Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has fired the country’s ambassador in Brazil, months after she was caught on video maltreating one of her household staff, his spokesman said on Tuesday.

“Aside from firing the ambassador, her retirement benefits are also forfeited and she will not be allowed to return to government service,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.

“That is her punishment for maltreating her helper,” Roque added. “This should be a lesson to all.”

Marichu Mauro, the ambassador in Brazil, was recalled in October 2020 after videos were released showing her hurting and berating a household staff.

In one of the videos, Mauro was seen slapping the victim. On another occasion, she was seen pulling the helper’s ear.

Mauro, a career diplomat, was appointed the country’s ambassador to Brazil in 2018.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin also announced that diplomats will now be banned from bringing along domestic staff for their foreign assignments without special clearance.

GNA