Another OFW freed from Gaza

THE Israeli Embassy in the Philippines confirmed that the Pinay held hostage by militant group Hamas has been released and was brought to a hospital for needed medical tests.

The Israeli Embassy in the Philippines said Wednesday, Nov. 29, that Noralin Babadilla, a 60-year-old Filipina abducted to Gaza, was brought to Tel HaShomer Hospital, near the country’s Ben Gurion airport, for appropriate medical tests.

“The Israeli Embassy in Manila expresses great relief upon the release of Ms. Noralyn ‘Nataly’ Babadilla from captivity by Hamas after 53 days,” the embassy said.

Babadilla and her Israeli partner, Gideon, visited their close friends in Kibbutz Nirim on Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked Israel, killed hundreds and took people hostage.

Gideon was murdered by the militants, according to the embassy.

“Miracles happen. Welcome back home, Noralyn!” Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said in a Facebook post.

Babadilla—and the other Filipino national released by Hamas, Jimmy Pacheco—will receive support from the Israeli government, Fluss said.

All Filipino nationals who initially went missing following Hamas’ attack are now accounted for, the embassy said.

“The Israeli government is committed and will do whatever is needed to bring them back home,” it added.