Play relives Filipinos in Israel

Israel in Manila is paying homage to OFWs and late Migrant Workers Secretary Toots Ople through a one-act play by Israeli improv group Duda showing in Manila throughout the weekend.

Duda presented a show based on the stories of some OFWs in Israel that the group interviewed prior to their performance in Manila.

In attendance to the improv show held on 6 September were relatives of the OFWs in Israel, family and friends of then Secretary Ople, officials from the DMW, members of the diplomatic community, government officials, and friends of the embassy.

There are around 30,000 Filipinos working as caregivers and hotel workers in Israel.

The Israel is working closely with the Philippines, especially with the Department of Migrant Workers, to ensure that their rights are protected and respected.

They are provided with medical insurance, pension fund, yearly leave with pay, and all of the social rights given under Israeli labor rules. The labor market in Israel is regulated by the rights of the employees.

Ambassador Fluss also highlighted the OFWs in Israel who are hardworking, compassionate, and notable for their world-class care.

He remembered Ople's dedication as an advocate for OFWs:

"In my close collaboration with her, I had the privilege of witnessing her unwavering commitment and compassionate leadership. Her unique blend of pragmatism and empathy made her a formidable advocate for OFWs. Together, we faced numerous challenges, driven by our shared commitment to enhance the lives of these unsung heroes. Her legacy of compassion, justice, and solidarity continues to inspire us all."

Improvisation or improv is a form of live theater in which the plot, characters, and dialogue of a story are unscripted and created spontaneously by the performers.

Duda is one of the groups performing at the Manila Improv Festival which is the biggest improv festival in Asia.

The group will be the opening act of the festival on 8 September at 7:30 p.m. in Ayala Malls Circuit Makati.

This is the second time for Duda to join the improv fest in Manila, the first one was way back in 2019.

In addition to the performances, the group is expected to do a workshop on applied improv with Filipino medical practitioners and an outreach event in an orphanage.

Fluss acknowledged the deep relations between the Philippines and Israel, a historical, profound bond rooted in shared values and fortified by vibrant cultural cooperation:

"Cultural collaboration has played a pivotal role in reinforcing this bond. Through a rich tapestry of cultural exchanges, we have deepened our understanding of each other's heritage and fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie. Culture is the bridge that connects our hearts and minds."