Department of Foreign Affairs. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Saturday said the Philippines is grateful for Qatar’s mediation efforts that resulted in the release of hostages held by Palestinian group Hamas.
“We recognize and deeply appreciate Qatar’s mediation efforts resulting in the release of a Filipino national in Gaza. The Philippines and Qatar remain committed to identifying a pathway for lasting peace in the region,” said Manalo in a tweet.
Manalos’s statement was issued after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. confirmed that a Filipino identified as Gelienor “Jimmy” Pacheco was among the first group of 24 hostages released by Hamas.
Pacheco, according to Marcos, is a 33-year-old Filipino who was taken hostage last October 7.
He is currently in the custody of the Philippine Embassy in Israel.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement issued Saturday afternoon, the DFA joined the nation in celebrating the release of Pacheco.
“This is the fruit of all the diplomatic representations that have been undertaken by the DFA under the guidance of President Marcos,” the DFA’s statement read.
“We recognize and deeply appreciate Qatar’s mediation efforts resulting in the release of Mr. Pachecho. We truly appreciate the assistance Israel is providing for Mr. Pacheco and his family. We also thank the governments of Egypt and Iran for their invaluable assistance on this matter and hope for their continued support,” the agency added.
DFA likewise noted that they are continuously working on the case of the remaining missing Filipino national in Israel.
When asked about Pacheco’s return to the Philippines, the DFA said they are still awaiting further word from the Philippine embassy in Israel.