Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, has expressed his government’s commitment to providing assistance to the families of victims of terror attacks in Israel, including four Filipinos. The ambassador recently visited Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, to pay his respects to one of the victims, Paul Castelvi, who was tragically killed by Hamas militants during an attack on an Israeli settlement on October 7.
After being cremated, Castelvi’s remains were brought back to the Philippines on December 23. In a statement released by the Israeli Embassy in Manila, it was revealed that Castelvi was the fourth Filipino victim “murdered by Hamas terrorists” during the attack. The embassy further explained that Castelvi, who was working as a caregiver, was killed in Beeri, a kibbutz located near Gaza. Despite the danger, he remained by his patient’s side until the very end.
Ambassador Fluss personally conveyed his condolences and sympathies to Castelvi’s wife, Jovelle Santiago, and their newborn son, Jhayzen Paul. The embassy assured the family that they would receive support and assistance as members of the Israeli family of victims of terror.
It is important to note that Castelvi was not the only Filipino victim of the Hamas attack. Angelyn Aguirre, Loreta Alacre, and Grace Cabrera, who were also caregivers, lost their lives during the incident. Additionally, Gelienor Pacheco and Noralin Babadilla were kidnapped by Hamas and held captive for over a month before being released separately in November.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) had previously announced that the Israeli government would extend aid to the families of all four Filipino victims. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega explained that, under Israeli law, assistance is provided to the relatives of those who have lost their lives due to terrorism, regardless of their nationality.
By offering support and assistance to the families affected by this tragic event, the Israeli government demonstrates its commitment to standing with victims of terror and their loved ones. Such acts of solidarity help foster international cooperation in combating terrorism and promoting peace.
It is crucial to recognize the significance of Ambassador Fluss’s visit to the Philippines and his personal engagement with the families of the victims. This gesture not only strengthens the bonds between Israel and the Philippines but also sends a powerful message of empathy and compassion.
As the international community continues to face the threat of terrorism, it is heartening to witness nations coming together to support one another in times of need. By providing assistance to the families of the victims, Israel sets an example for other nations to follow, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and support in the face of adversity.
The tragic loss of lives in the Hamas attack serves as a stark reminder of the global nature of terrorism. It is a shared responsibility of nations to work together to prevent such acts and ensure the safety and security of their citizens.
While the pain and grief caused by these events cannot be erased, the assurance of assistance and support from the Israeli government brings some comfort to the families affected. It is a reminder that they are not alone in their struggle and that there are allies ready to stand by their side.
As the families of the victims mourn their loved ones, the international community stands united in condemning acts of terrorism and offering support to those affected. Through collective efforts, we can strive towards a world where such tragic events become a thing of the past.
Source: The Manila Times
