The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has welcomed the release of another Filipino who has been taken hostage by Palestinian militant group Hamas.
"The Department of Foreign Affairs welcomes the release from captivity in Gaza of another Filipino national, Ms. Noralin Babadilla," it said in a statement on Wednesday, Nov. 29.
Babadilla was one of the victims who was taken hostage on October 7 when Hamas launched a surprise attack throughout Israeli towns, which prompted the Israeli government to declare a “state of war."
Last week, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. announced the release of Gelienor ‘Jimmy’ Pacheco, a Filipino caregiver who was among the first group of 24 hostages released by Hamas.
"We acknowledge and appreciate the mediation efforts of the State of Qatar that led to the release of Ms. Babadilla and previously of Mr. Jimmy Pacheco," DFA said.
The foreign affairs department acknowledged the State of Israel for recognizing the country's request to release more hostages, including Babadilla.
"We extend our sincere thanks to the State of Israel for agreeing to the conditions that facilitated the release of more hostages, including Ms. Babadilla, and for all their assistance they have provided our nationals in Israel," said the DFA.
It also thanked the government of Egypt and several agencies.
"We also recognize the support and participation of Egypt as well as the ICRC and other international organizations in the process," DFA noted.
The foreign affairs department said it will remain committed to looking after the welfare of Filipinos affected by the ongoing conflict, as it hopes that all hostilities in the area will eventually end.
