New York, USA – Filipino nursing aide Jovi Esperanza, who was previously charged with alleged patient assault, has returned to the Philippines after choosing voluntary deportation, according to Migrante New Jersey.
Three Months in Detention
Esperanza, 31 years old, spent three months at the Strafford County Correctional Facility in New Hampshire, where he was detained alongside his co-accused, Dhenmark Francisco.
Before his departure on January 29, Esperanza spoke to Migrante New Jersey through a video call from the detention center. He expressed his deep gratitude to the group for their unwavering support throughout his ordeal.
“It means a lot that you were there for me, even though I didn’t know any of you personally. Your support helped me endure this ordeal,” Esperanza said.
“I appreciate all your efforts. Despite your own responsibilities, you still made time to help me, and for that, I am truly grateful.”
Esperanza was hopeful about his return home, saying:
“They have already given me my departure date—on the 29th. I hope it pushes through soon. I look forward to the day I can give back, if not to you, then to others who may find themselves in a similar situation.”
Reunited with His Family in the Philippines
According to AJ Santos of Migrante New Jersey, Esperanza later sent a message confirming that he had arrived safely in the Philippines and was finally reunited with his family.
What Happened?
Esperanza and Francisco were charged with aggravated assault after allegedly beating a 52-year-old male patient at the rehabilitation facility where they worked in New Jersey in October 2024. The patient was left in critical condition at the hospital.
Both men claimed self-defense, insisting that the patient attacked them first.
Legal Assistance Challenges
According to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega, the DFA allocated funds last year to provide legal assistance for both Esperanza and Francisco. However, since Esperanza was already in custody, he was unable to access the funds.
“The DFA disbursed cash from the Legal Assistance Fund (LAF) for incurred and anticipated legal expenses for the criminal case. However, since he was already in custody, the amount could not be released to him,” De Vega told GMA Integrated News.
Francisco Still in US Detention
Meanwhile, Dhenmark Francisco remains detained at an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) facility in Massachusetts. His legal battle is ongoing, and it is still unclear whether he will also face deportation or continue to fight his case in the US courts.
What’s Next for Esperanza?
Now back in the Philippines, it remains to be seen whether Esperanza will face further legal actions or be able to start over after his challenging experience. His case highlights the legal struggles many Filipino workers face abroad and the importance of proper legal representation in foreign countries.
🇵🇭 Will Francisco be deported next? Stay tuned for updates!
