‘We just want him home’: Six-year-old Dubai boy seeks help to be reunited with his mother

Dubai: A six-year-old Filipino boy named Matty has been living in Dubai for nearly two years, separated from his mother in the Philippines. Maria Monem, a holistic health coach, became involved in the case in January 2025 after learning about Matty's situation when he was around four and a half years old. Monem first became aware of Matty's circumstances when he was in Dubai without proper documentation, separated from his mother and in an uncertain situation.

The mother had given birth to Matty at home without registering his birth due to fear of her immigration status. She had hoped to bring her son to the Philippines once she returned from the UAE, but with Matty's birth not registered, establishing his identity and reuniting the family became complicated. Monem has been working with the Philippine Consulate in Dubai, Dubai Police, and social workers to help the family navigate the required procedures.

However, the case remains unresolved as the DNA testing needed to establish maternity was costly and time-consuming. Despite these challenges, Monem remains focused on Matty's welfare, emphasizing that the child needs stability, protection, and a proper legal identity to attend school and access basic necessities.