‘Through Jeepneys: Bring Them Home Now Campaign’

The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, in cooperation with some Christian volunteers, held a "Bring them Home Now" campaign to call for the swift release of over 129 individuals abducted by the Hamas terror group in Gaza since 7 October.

The embassy uses Philippine jeepneys as canvasses to convey a powerful message of solidarity with Israel and a heartfelt plea for the safe return of the hostages.

MEDIA STATEMENT FOR PROJECT JEEPNEY

Ladies and gentlemen of the media,

Thank you for joining us this morning here in the Manila Bay area. We've gathered to inaugurate a crucial initiative – the "Through Jeepneys: Bring Them Home Now Campaign."

Our aim is to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis and the urgent need for the swift release of the 129 individuals abducted by the Hamas terror group in Gaza since October 7. Today, we're using Jeepneys as canvasses to convey a powerful message of solidarity with Israel and a heartfelt plea for the safe return of the abductees. You'll see these Jeepneys adorned with canvases displaying the photos of the kidnapped individuals and the flags of Israel, symbolizing the solidarity between our nations.

The choice of Jeepneys is deeply meaningful. Jeepneys hold a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, representing not only a mode of transportation but a vibrant tapestry of Filipino culture and history. Often referred to as the "King of the Road," Jeepneys are a testament to resilience and adaptability as a people.

Just this past Monday, on December 18th, I had the privilege of welcoming Jimmy Pacheco IN NAIA as he returned for a visit back home. Jimmy endured 47 days as a hostage of Hamas in Gaza, surviving unimaginable horrors.

His story is just one among many. Camile, a true hero, her loyalty and courage in saving her patient under fire exemplify the spirit we admire. Both of them are now part of Israel and have become integral members of the Israeli society and community. This is why I hosted them at my residence this week, at the residence of the state of Israel in the Philippines.

Maybe more significant is their expressed desire to return to Israel, a place they now consider their second home. Despite the horrors they faced by the terrorist of Hamas, Jimmy and Camile see Israel not just as a chapter in their lives but as an integral part of their identity and purpose. As we celebrate these reunions, our hearts remain heavy for the 129 individuals, including men, women, elderly people, and children still held captive by Hamas in Gaza.

Our goal is to shed light on their plight, victims of Hamas, a terrorist organization that attacked Israel on October 7. Hamas murdered, slaughtered, butchered innocent people, causing unimaginable suffering and loss to over 1200 innocent lives, Israelis and foreigners alike. Men, women, children, elderly. Sexually abusing, mutilating and raping women of all ages, murdering them. They continue to use human shields in Gaza, employing schools, mosques, hospitals, and humanitarian zones for their terror activities. The 129 hostages have been isolated since October 7, deprived of basic human necessities and medical care, red cross wasn't able to visit them. Actually no one saw them since October 7.

As we reflect on the recent celebrations of Hanukkah (the Jewish festival of lights) and look ahead to Christmas and the new year, our fervent hope and prayers are for the safe release of these kidnapped individuals so they can join their families in celebrating these joyous occasions.

In conclusion, we extend an invitation to the Filipino community and all those who stand for good, for justice and human rights to join us in this meaningful campaign. Let's harness the power of the Jeepneys to amplify our collective voice, sending a resounding message of hope and solidarity to the world. We should all putt pressure on the Hamas and Iran – let the hostages go home. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to the safe return of the remaining abductees.

Thank you.