Stephen Harper, from Bellshill, Scotland, was travelling in the Philippines when he suddenly died in Manila, the country's capital

The family and friends of a British man who died while travelling in the Philippines have paid tribute to the "kind-hearted lad" as they fight to bring him home.

Stephen Harper, 35 and from Bellshill in Scotland, died in the Filipino capital Manila on June 19 while he was travelling. His loved ones are now rallying to bring his body back to the UK, with repatriation costs estimated at £20,000.

Stephen's lifelong friend, Charles Brown, has launched a fundraising page to help bring his pal home, attracting widespread support. Charles wrote: "On the 19th June 2026 we received the devasting news that whilst travelling in the Philippine's, 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 estimate 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."

He added: "Stephen was a great friend with a truly kind heart. 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."

Celtic supporters have also described Stephen's death as "absolutely heartbreaking". A post by Celtic YNWA [You'll Never Walk Alone - the club's anthem] read: "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 £21,000 towards the cost of bringing him home.

You can support the fundraiser here