Filipino IDF Soldier Slain in Gaza Explosion: Philippine Embassy Assisting Family
A tragic incident in Gaza has claimed the life of a Filipino Israel Defense Force (IDF) soldier, Sgt. First Class Cydrick Garin. The Philippine Embassy in Israel is now working tirelessly to assist Garin’s grieving family during this difficult time.
The incident occurred when a Palestinian terror squad fired an anti-tank missile, hitting a home next to a compound that Garin and his fellow soldiers were tasked to demolish in Al Moazi, just 600 meters from the Israeli border. The attack resulted in a massive explosion, causing two buildings to collapse. Tragically, Garin and 20 other IDF soldiers lost their lives in the blast. IDF spokesperson Adm. Daniel Hagari described it as the “biggest daily death toll” in the IDF.
Sgt. First Class Cydrick Garin was a 23-year-old soldier who had spent most of his life in Israel. He studied at the Bialik Ragozin school in Tel Aviv and joined the Givati Brigade after enlisting in the IDF. Garin was serving in the 8208th battalion of the 261st brigade at the time of his death. In April 2021, he was recognized by the Southern Command for his outstanding service.
Garin’s mother, Imelda, who originally hails from the Philippines’ Isabela province but had been living with her son in Tel Aviv, expressed her profound grief on Facebook. In a heartfelt post, she wrote, “Son how could I bear all of this now that you’re gone. I’m gonna miss you so much. I love you son. I won’t forget you.”
The Israel Embassy in the Philippines released a statement expressing their commitment to supporting Garin’s family and the Filipino community during this devastating time. They emphasized that Israel shares in the profound grief felt by Sgt. Garin’s loved ones. The embassy is currently working to facilitate Garin’s father’s travel from General Santos, South Cotabato province, where he is residing, to Israel.
The death toll in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has now reached a staggering 25,700 since it began on October 7, 2023, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The number of injured individuals has also risen to 63,740, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict.
In the midst of this tragic news, it is important to remember the individual lives that have been lost and the families who are left to mourn. Sgt. First Class Cydrick Garin’s sacrifice will forever be remembered, and his family will receive the support they need during this difficult time. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by this devastating incident.
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