MANILA, Philippines — A Filipina caregiver, Leah Mosquera, died from severe injuries sustained during a missile attack in Rehovot, Israel, on June 15, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Sunday.
Mosquera’s death was reported by her sister, also an overseas Filipino worker in Israel, the DFA said in a statement. “The Department conveys its deepest condolences to Ms. Mosquera’s family and loved ones,” it added.
The attack occurred amid escalating tensions last month, as Israel and Iran exchanged missile strikes. A missile hit a residential building in Rehovot, south of Tel Aviv, leaving Mosquera critically injured. She had been hospitalized for weeks before succumbing to her injuries.
The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv is working with Israeli authorities to arrange the swift repatriation of Mosquera’s remains. The DFA expressed gratitude to the Israeli medical professionals who treated her and to the Filipino community in Israel for their support during her hospitalization. “The Department thanks the medical professionals who took care of Ms. Mosquera, as well as the Filipino community in Israel who offered comfort and support to her family,” the statement read.
With approximately 30,000 Filipinos living and working in Israel, primarily in caregiving and household roles, the Philippine government reiterated its call for the protection of civilians and migrant workers in conflict zones. The DFA urged Filipinos in Israel to stay vigilant and adhere to local safety guidelines as the government continues to monitor the volatile security situation.
Mosquera’s death has cast a somber shadow over the Filipino diaspora, highlighting the risks faced by migrant workers in regions of conflict.
