Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered full assistance and the immediate repatriation of the remains of a Filipina killed in a missile attack in Haifa, Israel, as he extended condolences to her family.
The Israeli Embassy in Manila identified the victim as 29-year-old Lucille Jane Gershovich, who was among four members of a family killed in the April 5 strike.
“Nakikiramay tayo sa pamilya ng ating kababayang nasawi sa naganap na missile attack sa Haifa, Israel. Kasama nating nagluluksa ang kanyang pamilya sa gitna ng isang trahedyang hindi dapat maranasan ninuman,” Marcos said in a social media post.
[Translation: We extend our sympathies to the family of our fellow Filipino who died in the missile attack in Haifa, Israel. We grieve with her family in the midst of a tragedy that no one should have to endure.]
The president directed concerned agencies to extend “full assistance” to the bereaved family, including ensuring the swift return of the victim’s remains.
“Nakaantabay ang ating embahada upang maibigay ang lahat ng kinakailangang tulong. Patuloy nating binabantayan ang sitwasyon sa rehiyon. Ang kaligtasan ng bawat Pilipino ang ating pangunahing prayoridad,” he said.
[Translation: Our embassy stands ready to provide all necessary assistance. We continue to monitor the situation in the region. The safety of every Filipino is our top priority.]
The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where missile exchanges have raised concerns over civilian safety and prompted governments to heighten assistance for nationals in the region.
Marcos said the entire nation stands with the victim’s family in mourning.
