Grief crossed borders this week.
The Israeli government has pledged lifetime support to the family of Mary Ann Velasquez De Vera — the Filipino caregiver killed in a missile attack in Tel Aviv.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh made the commitment on Tuesday.
And as she spoke, emotion took over.
A Promise Made Through Tears
According to a report by Super Radyo dzBB’s Carlo Mateo, Ambassador Kursh grew visibly emotional as she extended her condolences to De Vera’s grieving family.
Her voice carried both sorrow and responsibility.
De Vera lost her life during an Iranian retaliatory strike, following joint military actions by Israel and the United States against Iran — a conflict that has already claimed hundreds of lives.
But beyond the headlines and geopolitics is a family now left without a mother, a daughter, a provider.
“Lifetime Benefits” Under Israeli Law
Ambassador Kursh explained that Israeli law grants lifetime benefits to families of those injured or killed during a conflict — whether they are Israeli citizens or foreign nationals.
That includes Mary Ann.
Her family will receive financial assistance from the Israeli government.
Support that goes beyond immediate aid.
Support meant to last a lifetime.
The benefits will include financial compensation and livelihood assistance — a measure, officials say, to help the family rebuild after unimaginable loss.
Israel’s national security agency will oversee the release of these benefits.
A Personal Commitment
In a gesture that underscored the gravity of the moment, Ambassador Kursh said she would personally welcome De Vera’s remains upon their arrival in the Philippines.
A promise not just as a diplomat — but as a human being.
As of Tuesday, there is still no confirmed date for the repatriation of De Vera’s remains.
For now, her family waits.
And mourns.
While governments navigate conflict and diplomacy, one Filipino family carries a pain that cannot be measured in policies or compensation.
But in the middle of tragedy, a pledge has been made —
That they will not be left alone.
