THIRTY years ago, I bid farewell to the Philippines, never imagining that I would return as an ambassador to a country that has always felt like home. Today, I am proud to call myself a balikbayan diplomat.
THIRTY years ago, I bid farewell to the Philippines, never imagining that I would return as an ambassador to a country that has always felt like home. Today, I am proud to call myself a balikbayan diplomat.
From 1995 to 1998, I served as deputy chief of mission in Manila, a city that looked very different then. There was no Bonifacio Global City or tollways, brownouts were common, and I vividly recall the kindness of a neighbor who shared their generator so we could have electricity. After three decades, Gila and I returned in 2021, and I am honored to be the first Israeli diplomat to complete a full-circle mission. My journey in the Philippines has shaped not only my diplomatic career but also my personal growth as a father, husband and human being deeply connected to the Filipino people. My second son, Itamar, was born at Makati Medical Center , and on his recent 29th birthday, he revisited MMC — completing another symbolic circle. I will always cherish the breathtaking beauty of the Philippines — the islands, beaches and mountains that Gila and I explored offering the perfect adventure. Impressed by the beauty of the sea of clouds atop Mount Pulag to diving in Coron and Apo Island. The kindness of the people in Marinduque to the impressive rice terraces of Ifugao. Not mentioning El Nido, Bohol or Boracay. The list is endless. With every moment spent here, one truth becomes even more apparent: saying goodbye is never easy. Truly, walang katulad ang Pilipinas. 'I love the Philippines.' A key reason for my return is to further deepen bilateral relations. Over the years, we have expanded our presence. We established a trade office and the defense attaché while opening honorary consulates in Cebu and Davao. Anyone who knows me has heard my vision of 'building bridges of innovation and technology between Israel and the Philippines.' Today, I am happy to see this vision materializing. Israeli innovations are turning challenges to opportunities. In agriculture, we now send 700 Filipinos annually to study advanced farming techniques through the Agriculture Internship Program, in partnership with Tesda, DILG and the Department of Agriculture. We have witnessed transformative projects come to life, such as the largest greenhouse initiative by Metro Pacific Agro Ventures, a successful partnership with LR Group from Israel. Additionally, we recently inaugurated with NIA a solar-powered irrigation system in Pampanga , highlighting our commitment to integrating Israeli technology into Philippine agriculture to enhance productivity, efficiency, sustainability and profitability of farmers. We also institutionalized Brigada Eskwela, establishing learning centers for youth in Taguig, Quezon City and San Juan, with plans to open five more. Our collaboration with the Department of Education continues, including commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day — honoring President Manuel Quezon, who saved 1,300 Jewish refugees, and ensuring that history is preserved to prevent future atrocities like the Holocaust, where 6 million Jews were murdered simply for being Jewish. Beyond innovation, we embrace pakikipagkapwa — the Filipino value of shared humanity. During typhoons such as Yolanda, Odette and others, Israel was among the first to extend aid, standing by the Filipino people in their time of need. One foundation especially close to our hearts is Laura Vicuña, a shelter providing protection and healing for young girls. When we are there, we feel like adopted parents, it is so rewarding. These bonds remind us that beyond diplomacy we are human beings. Our mission is to do good, uplift and care for the people who have welcomed us so warmly. During one of Israel's darkest days, the unwavering support of the Filipino people brought light and strength. In the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack, their prayers, compassion and solidarity reminded us of the deep bond between our nations. Filipino heroism and resilience shine in adversity, and today, we honor Angelyn Aguirre, Loreta Alacre, Grace Cabrera and Paul Vincent Castelvi, who were among the more than 1,200 people murdered by Hamas in their homes in the communities and the Nova festival. We also remember Cedrick Garin, the Israeli-Filipino soldier who fell in action. Their bravery and sacrifice will forever be etched in our hearts, inspiring us to stand together for justice, peace and humanity. To this day, 58 hostages remain in Hamas captivity in Gaza. Knowing we have Filipino allies praying for their safe return gives us strength and hope. The Bataan Bless Israel gathering was a powerful testament to this friendship, with 4,000 attendees from various religious organizations standing in solidarity with us. Beyond diplomacy, we have found a true friend in the Filipino people. Through every challenge and triumph along history, Israel and the Philippines remain side by side — not just as allies, but as true friends committed to humanity, solidarity and progress. This partnership proves that friendship is not measured merely in words but in actions — the willingness to uplift one another and ensure that no nation walks alone. As Israel marks 77 years of independence, and before I end my term in this great country, I am honored, as a balikbayan diplomat, to contribute to the enduring and strengthening bond between our nations. Together, we thrive — united by resilience, shared values and a relentless pursuit of peace, progress and a brighter future. Shalom, Mabuhay. The author is the Israeli ambassador to the Philippines.
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