Three years have passed. The pain remains fresh. People gathered to remember the Filipino lives lost on October 7, 2023. A day when Hamas launched a genocidal attack at the border of Southern Israel.
The Embassy of Israel, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Department of Migrant Workers led the solemn event. They honored eight brave overseas Filipino workers who died during the Hamas terror attacks.
The ceremony took place on October 13, 2026. Guests wore black or white attire. They brought flowers and lit a candle for each fallen worker.
The tragedy unfolded at the Nova Music Festival and various kibbutz communities. Israelis, foreign nationals, and Filipinos shed blood that day. The victims faced unimaginable terror while working abroad to support their families back home.
Eight Filipinos were remembered during the tribute. They were Angelyn Aguirre-Torre, Grace Cabrera, Loreta Alacre, and Paul Castelvi. The list also included Cydrick Garin, Leah Mosquera, Mary Ann de Vera, and Lucille Gershovich.
Families of the victims attended the commemoration. Survivors also gathered to pay their respects. The room fell silent as loved ones shared their grief.
Filipinos currently working in Israel delivered powerful messages during the program. They spoke about their daily lives in the country. They stated that Israel remains safer and more assuring than any other nation in the Middle East. Many OFWs noted that they are treated like family in Israel. They contrasted this with other Arab countries where they often feel undervalued.
Camille Jesalva attended the event to pay her respects. Jesalva survived the October 7 attacks. She works as a Filipino caregiver to an elderly Holocaust survivor. She shared her harrowing experience and her reasons for staying.
The joint commemoration highlighted the strong bond between the Philippines and Israel. Officials praised the selflessness of the victims. They emphasized that the heroism of these OFWs will never be forgotten.
The candles shined warmly in the room. Attendees bowed their heads in prayer. The simple ceremony offered a moment of closure and deep reflection. It honored individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice while pursuing a better life.