Israel’s ‘Bring them home’ campaign takes jeepney ride

MANILA, Philippines — Using traditional jeepneys, the Israel embassy urged Filipinos yesterday to join in appealing for the release of 129 mostly Israeli hostages still being held by Hamas militants in Gaza.

A delegation headed by Ambassador Ilan Fluss hung Israel’s flags and tarpaulins, which carried the word “kidnapped” written in capital letters and the photos and profiles of hostages, on 15 jeepneys plying the Baclaran-Divisoria route and parked at the Quirino Grandstand parade grounds in Manila yesterday.

“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,” Fluss announced.

Among the hostages are the Bibas family, with their four-year-old and 11-month-old sons. Jimmy Pacheco, one of two Filipinos held by Hamas, made friends with them since they were captured when the group, tagged as terrorist, attacked parts of Israel on Oct. 7, according to sources from the Israeli embassy.

Fluss, who shared how he personally heard the harrowing account of Pacheco’s 47-day ordeal as a hostage of Hamas, urged the Filipino community to stand for good, justice and human rights by participating in this meaningful campaign.

While condemning Hamas’ murders and abuses against around 1,200 Israelis and foreigners they abducted, Fluss also reiterated the need for Hamas to release the remaining 129 hostages.

He also called on Filipinos to help Israel “put pressure on Hamas to change (their) ways, negotiate, release hostages, and stop using humans as (their) shields.”

“Together, we can make a difference and contribute to the safe return of the remaining abductees,” Fluss said.

Previously, 153 out of 193 members of the United Nations including the Philippines voted in favor of a ceasefire in Gaza, a territory of Palestine which Israel has bombarded heavily due to alleged presence of Hamas militants.