The family of a Brit who died while travelling in the Philippines have paid an emotional tribute to their “much-loved” son as friends rally to bring him home.
Stephen Harper, 35, from Bellshill, Scotland, died in Manila on 19 June while travelling.
His devastated loved ones are now facing a race against time to repatriate his body to the UK, with costs estimated at up to £20,000.
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A fundraising appeal launched by lifelong friend Charles Brown has already attracted widespread support, as reported by Need To Know.
In a post on GoFundMe, Charles wrote: “On the 19th June 2026 we received the devastating news that whilst travelling in the Philippines, my life long friend Stephen sadly lost his life.
“I am looking to raise some money on behalf of Stephen’s family to help bring his body back to the UK so that he can have the send off he deserves.
“The estimated costs for this can be anywhere up to £20,000 so any donations, big or small, will help towards this and will be greatly appreciated by all.”
Charles said he plans to cycle from Bellshill to Perth in Stephen’s memory, recreating a ride the pair completed together with friends five years ago.
Describing his friend, he said Stephen had “a truly kind heart”.
He said: “He was a passionate supporter of Celtic F.C. and rarely missed a match, following the team home and away.
“He also had a love for travel and enjoyed exploring the world, creating memories wherever he went.
“He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all who knew him.”
Stephen’s mum, Tracy Harper, also shared a heartbreaking tribute following her son’s death.
She wrote: “With broken hearts, we share the sad news that our much-loved son Stephen passed away while travelling in Philippines/Manila.
“We are devastated by his loss and will cherish our memories of him forever.
“Thank you to everyone for your support and kindness at this incredibly difficult time.”
Tributes have also poured in from fellow Celtic supporters.
A post shared by Celtic YNWA described Stephen as “a 35-year-old Celtic fan from Bellshill” whose death was “absolutely heartbreaking”.
It added: “From what’s been shared by those who knew him, Stephen wasn’t just someone who liked Celtic…he lived it.
“Home and away following the Hoops, making memories with his pals and being part of the massive Celtic family we all talk about so often.
“A kind-hearted lad, a traveller, a friend and clearly someone who meant the world to the people around him.”
The post also highlighted efforts to bring Stephen home to Scotland.
It read: “His family are now trying to bring him home to Scotland so he can get the send-off he deserves… that’s the least any family should be able to do after losing someone they love so far from home.
“Then something like this happens and you remember what the best of this support can be.
“We’re a community, a family and a shoulder when someone needs it most.
“Rest in peace Stephen.
“Our thoughts are with your family and friends.”
It is understood Stephen had been travelling for several months before his sudden death.
At the time of writing, the fundraising appeal had raised more than £20,000 towards the cost of bringing him home.
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