Taguig: The Israeli Embassy in the Philippines reported that life in Israel has largely returned to its usual state, despite ongoing tensions in the region, specifically with Iran. Deputy Ambassador to the Philippines Ester Buzgan highlighted the country’s efforts to assist civilians, including Filipinos, affected by recent conflicts during the Philippines-Israel Cybersecurity Forum held in Taguig on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently hosting 17 Filipino journalists on a tour in Israel to observe the actual situation. Deputy Ambassador Buzgan stated, “It’s back to normal. We have a delegation of 17 journalists right now, as we speak, in Israel. Actually, today they have a day in the south, and we were able to secure their way to the Kerem Shalom crossing, which is right at the border of Gaza Strip, to be able to see the humanitarian aid and the amount of trucks that have been entering daily into Gaza Strip.” She emphasized that Israel is a democratic country that values freedom of speech and free journalism, inviting the journalists to report back based on their observations.

Buzgan expressed gratitude towards the 30,000 overseas Filipino workers who decided to remain in Israel despite the conflicts. She assured government support for those who became casualties of the war, such as OFW Lea Mosquera, who succumbed to injuries from an Iranian missile attack. “We share your pain. I mean, it’s something that bonds us together, and it’s something that we understand. And the Israeli government will continue taking care of her family,” Buzgan affirmed.

Regarding hostages and humanitarian aid, Buzgan noted that Israel continues to hope for the release of about 50 hostages in Gaza. Collaborations with the United States and NGOs like the Gaza Humanitarian Fund aim to create secure channels for direct aid delivery to civilians, bypassing Hamas control. She also raised concerns about rising attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, affecting Filipino seafarers, and stressed the need for global cooperation against terrorism and maritime threats.

In closing, Buzgan expressed a hopeful outlook: “I pray that by the next time I meet you guys, our people will be back, just like your people. I pray for them, for the seafarers to be back home, and to stop this pirating and kidnapping people, be it on the sea or be it on the shore.”