House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the two Filipinos killed in the recent conflict in Israel, and vowed to extend assistance to their families.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has earlier confirmed the death of a 42-year-old man from Pampanga, captured by Hamas militants; and a 33-year-old woman from Pangasinan, killed alongside her employer during a coordinated militant attack near the Gaza Strip.
“These tragic events remind us of the dangers our fellow Filipinos face even as they seek opportunities abroad. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this difficult time,” Romualdez stated in a statement.
In a gesture of solidarity and support, the Speaker announced a joint personal donation of P1 million with Tingog Party List Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez to aid the affected families.
He also emphasized his commitment to finding sources for livelihood opportunities and scholarships, ensuring that the bereaved families will be provided the necessary assistance in rebuilding their lives.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of our countrymen. In these trying times, it’s crucial for us as a nation to come together and support one another. The donation is just a small token of our shared grief and our commitment to help,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker urges all Filipinos to join hands in prayer and support for those affected even as he expressed hope for the immediate resolution of the conflict in Israel, prioritizing the safety and well-being of innocent lives.
He expressed confidence that the government is doing everything it can to ensure the safety, welfare, and well-being of Filipinos in Israel.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the Philippines is now working closely with their Israeli counterparts to ensure the safety of the overseas Filipino workers and the Filipino community in the war-torn country.
Marcos said the government will immediately conduct the necessary repatriation efforts for affected Filipinos in Israel when the Israeli government starts to open “humanitarian corridors”. ||
