On Thursday, January 23, a representative of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Chelo Garafil reported that a Filipino tourist, who suffered due to a fall in Taiwan, requires two weeks of rehabilitation before she can stand up. The doctor prescribed two weeks of treatment and rehabilitation for her recovery.
"We will assist her and contact the Taiwanese authorities to possibly reduce the fine, considering the seriousness of her injury," Garafil noted. According to the MECO representative, Taiwanese officials so far have not associated the incident with the violations of safety rules on the railway.
The woman sustained head, chest, and pelvic injuries that require surgical intervention. Additionally, the Taiwan Railway Administration stated that the injured may incur a fine of up to 50,000 TWD (approximately 100,000 PHP) for violating safety rules on railway transportation according to Taiwan's laws.
Garafil confirmed that MECO will support the injured in seeking a reduction of the fine, considering the seriousness of her injuries. After this, she will be able to return to the Philippines. The incident, which occurred on the streets of the Shifen Sky Lanterns, was recorded on video.
She also urged Filipino tourists to comply with local regulations to ensure their safety abroad. Garafil expressed hope that this isolated incident will not affect the travel arrangements for Filipino tourists in Taiwan.
The Filipino, who was standing on the tracks of the railway and apparently taking a selfie, raised her left hand, after which she was struck by an approaching train, resulting in her falling and being trapped on the tracks for several meters.
