A 32-year-old Filipina caregiver has been confirmed as the first Filipino casualty in the escalating conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran — a tragic loss that has deeply saddened the Filipino community abroad.
The Philippine Embassy in Israel identified the victim as Mary Ann V. de Vera, a native of Basista, Pangasinan, who had been working in Israel since 2019. She was killed during a missile attack in Tel Aviv.
According to the embassy, de Vera was helping her employer reach a bomb shelter when the explosion occurred. They were unable to make it in time, and she was fatally struck by shrapnel from falling debris.
Her identity was confirmed through biometric records at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute, where her husband — who also works in Israel — personally identified her remains.
Philippine Ambassador Aileen Mendiola has reached out to the grieving husband to convey the government’s condolences and assure him of full assistance.
In a message, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the nation mourns with the family and reaffirmed that authorities continue to monitor the safety of Filipinos across the Middle East.
“The Embassy joins the entire Filipino community in the Holy Land in praying for the repose of her soul and for comfort and strength for her family,” the statement read.
Filipinos in Israel and nearby countries have been urged to remain indoors, stay calm, and follow official advisories as tensions continue.|
