• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced the death of Negrense caregiver Leah Mosquera, 49, who passed away on July 13 due to severe injuries she suffered during an Iranian missile attack in Israel.
In a statement on Sunday, the DFA said the missile struck her apartment on June 15.
Mosquera is the first confirmed Filipino casualty from the recent escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Israel, Mosquera underwent several surgeries at the Shamir Medical Center and remained in the intensive care unit until she passed away.
Her sister, Joy, who is also working in Israel, and was with her at the hospital, shared the news of her passing and consented to the release of the information to the public, the embassy said in a statement.
Karen Dinsay, head of the Negros Occidental Public Employment Service Office, said that she will consult with Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on what assistance the provincial government could extend to the family of Mosquera.
The Philippine Embassy in Israel is arranging the repatriation of Mosquera’s remains.
“As we mourn Ms. Mosquera’s passing, the Department renews its call for the protection of civilians, including migrant workers, during times of conflict,” the DFA said.
Lovingly called Ate Leah by her friends, she would have celebrated her 50th birthday on July 29.
Throughout her many years working in Israel, she dedicated herself to supporting her family back home – an enduring symbol of courage and sacrifice of overseas Filipino workers around the world, the embassy said.
The DFA also thanked the medical professionals, who took care of Mosquera, as well as the Filipino community in Israel, who offered comfort and support to her family during her hospitalization.
On Oct. 7, 2023, caregiver Loreta Alacre of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental also died during the Hamas attack in Israel. | GB
