Marcos meets Pinoy survivors of Hamas attacks on Israel

MANILA, Philippines — Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) Jimmy Pacheco and Camille Jesalva – survivors of the Oct. 7 attack of Palestinian militant group Hamas in Israel – epitomize the true Filipino trait of remaining devoted to their duties in the midst of danger, President Marcos has said.

Marcos welcomed Pacheco and Jesalva at Malacañang on Friday and expressed elation they returned home safely.

“Well, at least you’re home, Merry Christmas. Your experience was very difficult,” the President told the OFWs.

In a post on his official Facebook account on Friday night, Marcos hailed the Filipino survivors in the Israel-Hamas conflict and assured them, along with other OFWs, of continued government’s support, especially those who are in challenging situations.

“In the midst of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Mr. Pacheco and Ms. Jesalva exemplified the true Filipino spirit – remaining devoted to their duties and filled with profound love for others,” the Chief Executive said.

“With their stories in our hearts, we pledge to stand by our modern-day heroes and ensure their safety in times of turmoil,” he said.

Pacheco, a caregiver in Israel, was held hostage by Hamas for 49 days and was one of two Filipinos captured by the Palestinian militant group during their Oct. 7 rampage in southern Israel, that resulted in the death of more than 1,000 people.

He was among the first batch of hostages released by Hamas on Nov. 24, in exchange for the release of Palestinians from Israel prisons, as part of a truce.

Pacheco returned to the Philippines on Dec. 18.

In a statement on Friday night, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Pacheco recounted the attack to Marcos, of how their kibbutz was infiltrated by the group, who shot his Israeli ward to death.

He also told the President about his ordeal while in captivity together with other Israelis, and how they moved from one tunnel to another to avoid Israeli troops amid heavy bombardment.

Pacheco was hailed for his loyalty, not leaving behind his 80-year-old ward who was killed by Hamas militants when they barged into their house.

“My ward was like a father to me. That was why I consciously wanted to stay there,” Pacheco said