• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Foreign Affairs 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, the DFA said that an Iranian missile struck her apartment on June 15.
Mosquera is the first confirmed Filipino casualty from the recent escalation in 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 (ICU), before passing away on July 13.
Her sister, Joy, who is also working in Israel, and took care of her, while she was fighting for her life at the ICU, 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, disclosed last night that she will consult with Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on what assistance that the provincial government could extend to the family of Mosquera.
The Philippine Embassy in Israel is now arranging for 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 by 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 statement 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.
In October 7, 2023, Negrense caregiver Loreta Alacre of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental, was among those killed during the Hamas attack in Israel. Coincidentally, she was also 49 when she died in Israel.*
