MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The Filipino community in Australia is mourning the tragic death of 42-year-old Czarina Gatbonton Tumaliuan, a devoted mother of four, after she was found with fatal stab wounds in her home in Werribee, Melbourne’s west, on Thursday morning.
Authorities were called to her residence on Retford Close just after 9 AM, where emergency responders discovered Czarina’s lifeless body in the backyard. Her former partner and father of her children, Jessie James Tumaliuan, 41, was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with one count of murder.
A devoted mother and entrepreneur
Czarina, was known in her community as a loving mother who prioritized her children above all else. She would ensure they crossed the road safely every morning on their way to school. Her social media accounts reflected her passion for family, business, and adventure.
In recent months, she had been running a small clothing and accessories business, Bellizzima Online Shop, from her home. Her posts often showcased her homemade cheese and moments of joy, including a recent Coldplay concert she attended.
A family torn apart
The couple’s four children —- a teenage boy and three primary school-aged kids, including five-year-old twins -— were at school when police delivered the heartbreaking news. Neighbors recall hearing three piercing screams before emergency services arrived.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed his grief, stating, “It is devastating. It has completely shaken us. These young kids will suffer the most. I can’t stop thinking about the mental health impact this will have on them for the rest of their lives.”
Court proceedings underway
On Friday, Tumaliuan appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, where he remained calm and did not apply for bail. The court heard that a pathologist’s report, expected to take 12 weeks, will determine Czarina’s cause of death. Authorities are also gathering statements from her family in the Philippines.
Neighbors described Tumaliuan as frequently coming and going from the house before the tragic incident. His silver Nissan Elgrand minivan remains parked outside their home.
A call for justice
This heartbreaking case has reignited concerns about domestic violence and the safety of women, particularly among migrant communities. Many believe it is yet another failure of the system, leaving four young children without their mother.
As the Filipino community in Melbourne and abroad grieves this tragic loss, friends and relatives are calling for justice for Czarina. She is remembered not only as a hardworking mother and entrepreneur but as a woman who loved her family deeply and never gave up, despite life’s struggles.
Gofundme fundraiser for Czarina
Friends have organized a fund raising campaign using GoFundMe to help support Czarina’s four children.