DMW mourns passing of Pinay caregiver in Israel due to injuries from Iran missile strike

The Department of Migrant Workers conveyed its condolences to the relatives of the Filipina caregiver who died in Israel due to injuries after an Iranian missile attack.

"The Department of Migrant Workers deeply mourns the passing of OFW caregiver Leah Mosquera, a victim of an Iranian missile attack on the City of Rehovot, Israel last 15 June 2025," the DMW said in a statement issued on Sunday.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to Ms. Mosquera’s family. Truly, OFW Leah’s dedication and quiet heroism embody the strength and sacrifices of our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who carry the hopes and dreams of their families, their communities, and our nation," it added.

The DMW-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, in partnership with the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv, will pay for the expenses related to the repatriation of Mosquera's remains to the Philippines, as well as her burial, the department said.

Mosquera's sister and fellow caregiver Mae Joy would also be assisted in her travel back to the Philippines, the DMW said.

“Alinsunod sa malinaw na direktiba ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na ‘Walang Pilipinong maiiwan,’ sasagutin ng pamahalaan ang lahat ng kaugnay na gastusin - mula sa repatriation, local transport, funeral at burial expenses, hanggang sa tulong para sa kapatid ni Leah,” said OWWA in a seperate statement. 

(In accordance with the clear directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. that ‘No Filipino will be left behind,’ the government will shoulder all related expenses - from repatriation, local transport, funeral and burial expenses, to assistance for Leah's sister.) 

Financial assistance would also be extended to Mosquera's family, it added.

"We honor Ms. Mosquera’s life of service and enduring legacy of care. She is a heroine who shall live in our hearts forever," the department said.

Mosquera, 49 and a native of Negros Occidental, underwent several surgeries at Shamir Medical Center, where she "fought for her life" in the intensive care unit for several weeks, the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv said.

"The Embassy is now working on the repatriation arrangements and the provision of all necessary assistance for Ms. Mosquera," the embassy said.

"Lovingly called Ate Leah by her friends, she would have celebrated her 50th birthday this 29 July," it added.

In a separate statement, the Israel Embassy in Manila also extended condolences and lifelong support to the family of Mosquera.

Iran’s offensive against Israel was in response to Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, a military action supposed to deter if not eradicate Iran’s nuclear program.

“Israel shares in the profound sorrow of her family and the Filipino community. We mourn with you and honor Leah’s memory with dignity and compassion. May her soul rest in peace,” it said. 

“As such, her immediate family will receive lifelong support from the Israeli government as part of Israel’s unwavering commitment to stand beside them during this difficult time,” it added. —With a report from Llanesca T. Panti/KG/RF, GMA Integrated News