Manalo thanks Qatar for mediating in hostage’s release

​Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Saturday, Nov. 25, expressed his gratitude to the government of Qatar for mediating in the release of a Filipino taken hostage by Hamas when it launched a surprise attack on Israel a month ago.

“We recognize and deeply appreciate Qatar’s mediation efforts resulting in the release of a Filipino national in Gaza,” Manalo said in his post on X.

On Saturday, the Philippine government announced the release of Gelienor “Jimmy” Pacheco, who was among the first batch of 24 individuals freed by Hamas.

One Filipino national is still missing following Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7. It is not yet clear if she is also among the hostages.

President Marcos said the government is concerned over the whereabouts of Noralyn Babadilla as the country is “sparing no effort to locate and secure her if she is indeed found to be one of the hostages.”

According to Manalo, the Philippines and Qatar remain committed to “identifying a pathway for lasting peace in the region.” He made the pronouncement amid the ongoing Israel and Hamas war, which is feared to spread to neighboring Arab countries.

On Nov. 8, Manalo also thanked Qatar for mediating between Israel and Hamas for the opening of a humanitarian corridor, which allowed 40 Filipinos to cross from Hamas-controlled Gaza to Egypt.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is joining the nation in celebrating Pacheco’s release.

“This is the fruit of all the diplomatic representations that have been undertaken by the Department of Foreign Affairs under the guidance of the President,” it said.

The DFA also thanked the governments of Egypt and Iran for their assistance on the matter and expressed hope for a continued support.

“We also acknowledge the  support and participation of ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross) and other international organizations in this process,” DFA said.

“We continue to work on the case of the other missing Filipino national in Israel, and for all other kababayans who continue to be affected by this difficult situation,” it added.

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