Philippine Government Confirms Death of Filipina in Middle East Conflict
A Filipino caregiver working in Israel was killed during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed. The victim, identified as Mary Ann Velasquez De Vera from Pangasinan, died while trying to save the elderly person under her care and bring the patient to a bomb shelter during an attack.
According to the President, De Vera and her patient were on their way to safety when they were caught in an explosion before reaching the shelter. She was struck by shrapnel from falling bombs, which caused her death. Her husband, who is also an overseas Filipino worker in Israel, formally identified her.
Earlier that same day, the President reported that there were no Filipino casualties amid the rising tensions in the region. However, by Sunday evening, the government received confirmation of De Vera’s death, marking the first recorded Filipino casualty in the recent escalation of violence involving Israel, the United States, and Iran.
The President expressed deep sympathy to De Vera’s family and recognized her bravery and dedication as a caregiver who put her patient’s safety before her own. He assured the public that the Philippine government would provide full support to her loved ones, including all necessary assistance during this difficult time.
He also emphasized that authorities continue to closely monitor the situation of Filipinos across the Middle East. The government remains ready to respond to their needs and ensure their safety as the conflict continues. The President said that protecting Filipino workers abroad remains a top priority and promised to provide further updates, especially if there are additional developments involving Filipino nationals in the region.
“Tinitiyak ng pamahalaan ang buong suporta sa kanyang pamilya at patuloy ang ating pagmo-monitor sa kalagayan ng lahat ng ating mga kababayan sa Middle East. Mananatili tayong nakaalalay at handang tumugon sa kanilang pangangailangan,” he said.