Melbourne, Australia – A fundraising campaign has been launched to help repatriate the remains of Maridel “Madel” De Ocampo, a Filipino dairy worker who died in a road accident in Maffra, Victoria, on 20 February 2025.
De Ocampo, a single mother, came to Australia to work and provide a better future for her nine-year-old daughter in the Philippines. She was involved in a fatal accident on Maffra-Stratford Road while on her way to work.
According to Gippsland Times, the accident occurred around 12:20 pm when De Ocampo’s silver 2001 Toyota Corolla sedan stopped on the road to turn into a driveway. It was then struck from behind by a 2022 Mitsubishi Triton utility, causing fatal injuries. The driver of the Mitsubishi, a 35-year-old man from Stratford, was taken to the hospital and has since been released pending further inquiries.
The Mirage News reported that Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
In response to the tragedy, De Ocampo’s family and friends have started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the cost of bringing her body back to the Philippines for burial. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on her family and ensure she is laid to rest in her homeland.
Originally from the Philippines, De Ocampo lost her husband years ago and decided to work overseas to support her child. She was known for her dedication and perseverance in her role in the dairy industry in regional Victoria.
Members of the community have expressed their condolences and willingness to help. As of this writing, the GoFundMe campaign has already raised $13,001 AUD through 329 donations toward its $50,000 goal. Those who wish to contribute can do so through the official campaign page.