Negros Occidental Mourns OFW Killed in Israel Strike

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed condolences to the family of Leah Mosquera, a 49-year-old overseas Filipino worker from San Enrique town, who died in a missile strike in Rehovot, Israel, on June 15.

In a media interview Monday, Lacson described the incident as “very unfortunate,” noting reports that Mosquera, a Filipina caregiver, fought hard to survive but succumbed to her injuries.

“She really fought for her life, but the injury she sustained was just too much for her,” he said.

Lacson assured that the provincial government would extend assistance to Mosquera’s family and is coordinating with the Public Employment Service Office to determine the aid to be provided.

San Enrique Mayor Jilson Tubillara, who personally knew Mosquera, said she had served as barangay treasurer in Guintorilan village before working abroad for nearly 20 years with her sister.

He described her as a dedicated and hardworking barangay official.

Details of Mosquera’s repatriation to San Enrique remain unclear.

The local government has committed to providing support to her grieving family.

Mosquera is the second OFW from the province to be killed in the conflict.

The first was 49-year-old Loreta Alacre from Barangay Cadiz Viejo, Cadiz City, who died in 2023.

The Public Employment Service Office has activated its OFW Help Desk to assist residents with relatives in conflict-affected areas.

So far, no OFWs from the province have indicated plans to return home.

The Department of Foreign Affairs extended its condolences to Mosquera’s family and confirmed that the Philippine Embassy in Israel is working on repatriating her remains.

The department also thanked medical professionals who treated Mosquera and the Filipino community in Israel for supporting her family during her hospitalization.

“As we mourn Ms. Mosquera’s passing, the department renews its call for the protection of civilians, including migrant workers, during times of conflict,” it said in a statement.