MANILA – Camille Jesalva, the Filipina caregiver who saved her elderly ward during the Oct. 7 Hamas offensive against Israel, was honored by Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Jesalva was recognized by Herzog during an event on July 16 for the authors and heroes whose stories were featured in the bestselling book One Day in October that tells 40 inspiring stories from the Oct. 7 attack.
“Camille’s display of courage as well as compassion and malasakit (concern) in the face of extreme personal danger brings both inspiration and pride, and more importantly, strengthens the emotional link and deep friendship that bind Filipinos and Israelis,” the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv said Friday.
Jesalva was taking care of 95-year-old Nitza Hefer when the Hamas attacked their community Kibbutz Nirim.
She convinced the militants who entered their house not to harm them by offering her USD370 savings and mobile phone.
When the attackers fled with the valuables, she and Nitza locked themselves inside the safe room until they were rescued by the Israel Defense Forces.
Jesalva's story went viral and received widespread media coverage, turning her into a national hero of sorts in Israel.
During their conversation, Camille underscored her taking pride in being a Filipino to Herzog, who in turn praised Camille for her quick thinking amidst the ordeal. (PNA)
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