The remains of overseas Filipino worker Mary Ann De Vera, killed in a missile attack in Israel, arrived in the Philippines on March 14 and were received by her family and government officials. The Department of Migrant Workers facilitated the repatriation to provide immediate assistance to her relatives. Israel's government has also pledged support to the family.
On March 14, the remains of 32-year-old caregiver Mary Ann De Vera from Basista, Pangasinan, arrived in the Philippines. She had been working in Israel as a caregiver since 2019 when she was killed in a missile strike in Tel Aviv on the evening of February 28. The attack occurred amid rising tensions in the Middle East, stemming from Iran's retaliatory strikes following joint military actions by Israel and the United States.
Her husband, Bernie Lavarias, accompanied the remains on the journey back. According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), De Vera's family, along with government officials, received the remains to ensure a proper homecoming and immediate aid. "Upon the arrival in the country of the remains of OFW caregiver Mary Ann De Vera, she was received by her family, along with government officials to ensure a proper homecoming and immediate assistance for her loved ones," the DMW stated on Facebook.
Representatives from the DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration were present to offer condolences. Lavarias had earlier met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who extended the Israeli government's sympathies. Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh attended the arrival and affirmed Israel's commitment to lifetime support for the family.
Kursh noted that under Israeli law, families of those injured or killed in conflicts—including foreign nationals—are eligible for lifelong benefits such as financial aid and livelihood assistance. The Philippine government will continue providing support to the family in recognition of her bravery and sacrifice. "This was in recognition of the courage and sacrifice Mary Ann showed while carrying out her duties as an overseas Filipino worker," the DMW added.
