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Speaker praises Marcos admin for efforts in release of 2 OFWs by Hamas

Philippines | National

Speaker praises Marcos admin for efforts in release of 2 OFWs by Hamas

By Ellson Quismorio

At A Glance

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has commended on Wednesday, Nov. 29 the Marcos administration for successfully effecting the release of the two overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been held hostage by the Hamas.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has commended on Wednesday, Nov. 29 the Marcos administration for successfully effecting the release of the two overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been held hostage by the Hamas.

Released by the Palestinian rebels as per President Marcos Wednesday was OFW Noralyn Babadilla.

Babadilla's release came four days after the release of fellow OFW captive Gelienor “Jimmy” Pacheco.

“Our gratitude is beyond words. Nevertheless, this means the government is doing its best to rescue any OFW from harm’s way. Our goal is for them to be safe and, if possible, to be reunited with their families back home,” Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives, said.

The Speaker also thanked the Israeli, Egypt, and State of Qatar governments for their pivotal role in facilitating the release of Babadilla.

Babadilla and Pacheco were taken hostage by Hamas last October 7. Both Filipinos were freed during the ceasefire agreed by Israel and Hamas.

The 49-year-old Pacheco, who hails from Ilocos Norte, is now staying in a hotel and will be repatriated to Manila before Christmas, the Philippine Embassy in Tel-Aviv said.

Meanwhile, Babadilla is now safely back in Israel following her release.

Related Tags

overseas Filipino worker Martin Romualdez hostage HAMAS President Marcos

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