Capitol to give PHP190K aid to slain OFW’s family

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson announced that the provincial government will extend PHP190,000 in financial assistance to the family of Leah Mosquera, a 49-year-old overseas Filipino worker from San Enrique town, who died from injuries sustained in a missile strike in Rehovot, Israel.

In a press briefing Tuesday, Lacson said the amount matches the aid given to the family of Loreta Alacre of Cadiz City, who was killed in the Hamas attack in Israel in October 2023.

Lacson earlier described Mosquera’s case as “very unfortunate,” citing reports that the Filipina caregiver fought hard to survive before succumbing to her injuries.

Donna, Leah’s sister and also a former OFW in Israel, said Leah suffered severe injuries during the June 15 missile strike, remained in a coma at a hospital in Israel, and died on July 13, 2025.

Both sisters are single.

Donna told the Daily Guardian on Monday that Leah had taken the day off and was staying at their apartment with other OFWs when the strike occurred.

She added that their youngest sister, Gingging—also in Israel and staying in the same quarters—opted to work that day and was spared.

Leah had been working in Israel since 2008, briefly returning home in 2013 before going back the same year, where she remained until her death.

Known for her joyful character, Leah supported her nieces and nephews’ education and often brought chocolates home for them from Israel.

Donna said Leah rarely took vacations at home, especially after both their parents passed away.

The family is now awaiting guidance from the Department of Migrant Workers regarding the repatriation of Leah’s remains, which were expected to arrive in the country this week.