PH caregiver wounded in Iran counterstrike dies
A 49-year-old Filipino caregiver in Israel passed away on Sunday morning after sustaining injuries from an Iranian missile counterattack last month, the Philippine Embassy in Israel announced.
In a statement, the embassy said that Leah Mosquera, who would have celebrated her birthday on July 29, suffered serious injuries when an Iranian missile struck her apartment in Rehovot, Israel, on June 15.
The native of Negros Occidental was brought to Shamir Medical Center, where she underwent multiple surgeries. She stayed in the intensive care unit for weeks under the care of her sister, Joy, who also works in Israel.
“Joy shared the sad news of her sister’s passing and consented to the release of the information to the public. The embassy expresses its deepest gratitude to her and extends heartfelt condolences to the entire Mosquera family in the Philippines,” the embassy said.
Enduring symbol of courage
It paid tribute to Mosquera, noting that in her “many years” of 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.”
“As we mourn her passing and remember her life, the Embassy also renews its call for the protection of civilians, including foreign workers, during times of conflict,” it said.
At the same time, it thanked the first responders who rescued Mosquera, her doctors and nurses, the priests who prayed over her, and “the Filipino community members who offered comfort and support to her sister and friends during this difficult time.”
“The embassy is now working on the repatriation arrangements and the provision of all necessary assistance for Ms. Mosquera,” it said.
Israel carried out strikes against Iran on June 13, targeting its nuclear and military sites, after US President Donald Trump warned of a possible “massive conflict” in the region. Iran responded by firing back ballistic missiles at Israel in a counterstrike on the same day.
Seven Filipinos suffered injuries in the missile attacks, but five were released from the hospital after a few days. Some 67 Filipinos lost their homes due to the conflict.
