The Philippine Embassy in Israel recently held a memorial mass for Leah Mosquera, a caregiver from Negros Occidental who tragically died following an Iranian missile attack in Rehovot, Israel.
The mass, led by Father Carlos Santos, took place on Friday, July 18, and saw a solemn gathering of diplomats, community members, and Mosquera’s loved ones.
Among those in attendance were the Ambassadors of Singapore, Thailand, and Nepal, as well as Mosquera’s sister, Mae Joy, her friends in Rehovot, and various Filipino community leaders.
Mosquera, 49, from San Enrique, Negros Occidental, passed away on July 13 in Israel due to severe injuries. She had been critically wounded when an Iranian missile struck her apartment in Rehovot on June 15.
Bishop Giacinto-Boulos Marcuzzo conveyed the heartfelt condolences of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, to the Filipino community, a post on the Facebook page of the Philippine Embassy in Israel said.
Bishop Marcuzzo also blessed Mosquera’s portrait at the close of the mass, followed by a flower offering from all attendees.
Ambassador Aileen Mendiola extended her deepest sympathies to Mosquera’s grieving family.
She also underscored the critical importance of protecting civilians, including migrant workers, during periods of conflict.
“The Embassy and the Filipino community in the Holy Land continue to pray for Leah’s peace, as well as for healing and strength for her remaining family members,” the embassy’s FB post added.*