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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Israeli president meets widower of OFW killed in Iranian attack

Israeli president meets widower of OFW killed in Iranian attack

Published Mar 13, 2026 09:48 am
Israeli President Isaac Herzog meets Bernie Galsim Lavarias, the widower of Filipina caregiver Mary Ann de Vera killed during an Iranian attack, at the presidential residence on March 12. (Government Press Office)
Israeli President Isaac Herzog meets Bernie Galsim Lavarias, the widower of Filipina caregiver Mary Ann de Vera killed during an Iranian attack, at the presidential residence on March 12. (Government Press Office)
Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with the widower of Filipina caregiver Mary Ann de Vera, who was killed by shrapnel in an Iranian attack, to express the Jewish nation’s devastation over the incident.
Herzog met Bernie Galsim Lavarias, De Vera’s husband, at the presidential residence on Thursday, March 12, and expressed his deepest condolences to him and to the Filipino people.
The President described De Vera as “an angel” and a hero who saved her employer during a missile attack.
“So many Israelis were hurt by and took to heart the loss of Mary Ann,” Herzog said.
“I cannot change this terrible fate, unfortunately, but as a word of some remorse and condolences, I say thank you to you, Bernie, and to what you have done,” Herzog told De Vera’s husband.
“I also want to extend my deepest appreciation for the incredible work and contribution of the Filipino community in Israel. You are deeply respected and loved by the Israeli people,” he added.
De Vera’s family would be given an incentive just like other Israelis who were hurt or killed during attacks, the Israeli government said.
Philippine Ambassador to Tel Aviv Aileen Mendiola-Rau was also present during the meeting.
“It pains us, but when you ask the Filipino community, many choose to remain because they see themselves as a partner and a family member,” she said.

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Mary Ann de Vera Israel PH-Israel Middle East conflict
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