Filipino teacher named as Crown Range crash victim
Tributes have been paid to a Filipino teacher killed in a crash on Queenstown's Crown Range on Sunday.
Married mother-of-three Joyce Fesico, known as Madoy, was on holiday in New Zealand, attending her niece's wedding.
She died on the notorious mountain pass in a two-car crash shortly before 4pm. Three other people were seriously injured, while others sustained moderate and minor injuries.
A Givealittle page, created by her sister Mia De Los Santos (O'Riley) to fund repatriation, says she had dedicated her life to teaching high school students in Baao Camarines Sur for many years.
"She was actually due to retire comes January and was looking forward to endless days with family and love of gardening," it reads.
"Whilst she was enjoying her short visit to New Zealand, she refrained from posting pictures as our province got ravaged by floods a week prior to her untimely death. She deemed it inappropriate and insensitive.
"She was kind, considerate, chill, and funny. She was our confidante. She leaves behind a husband, three children and many grieving family, friends, and students."
Dozens of her pupils have posted tributes online.
"Hello Mommy Joyce, also known as Ma'am Joyce Fesico, thank you for teaching us, thank you for being our second mother, thank you for telling and sharing your story that helps us grow our knowledge about life," one reads.
"Your way of teaching is very special. You taught us how to fight, not physically, but mentally. Your lessons will always be unforgettable, and we will always carry them until our last breath. You've been an exceptional teacher for caring about your students and treating them like your own kids. Our memories with you will be special and unforgettable."
Police have not yet formally confirm her identity. The Serious Crash Unit examined the scene for several hours.
