Father of fallen Filipino IDF soldier to receive permanent residence in Israel

Enrico Basilio, father of Filipino-Israeli Sgt.-Maj. Cedrick Garin, who was killed during fighting in the Gaza Strip last January, will receive permanent residency in Israel, Interior Minister Moshe Arbel announced on Monday. 

Basilio was deported from Israel about 22 years ago, when his son Cedrick was only two years old. Cedrick’s mother, Imelda, also from the Philippines, raised him by herself, working as a cleaner. She had the status of a temporary resident. 

Towards the end of high school, Cedrick encountered challenges and became involved in criminal activity. Following his arrest, he realized the impact of his actions on his mother, who had devoted her life to raising him.

Cedrick asked for permission to enlist in the IDF, requesting to serve in the Givati Brigade combat unit. He was initially refused entry because of his police record but persisted in his request. He was eventually granted permission to join the unit, completing his training with valor.

Cedrick was granted Israeli citizenship after completing his military service. However, his mother retained only temporary residency status.

After Cedrick was killed in January, Interior Minister Arbel announced that he would “do everything” to see that Cedrick’s parents received citizenship as an expression of gratitude for his sacrifice. 

“There are no words to describe his bravery and dedication to the country. The entire State of Israel embraces and strengthens you in your difficult time,” Arbel told the parents at the time. 

Cedrick’s father Enrico came to Israel for the burial after his son was killed.

“Cedrick’s parents sacrificed that which was most precious to them for the country, and we need to be by their side at this time,” Arbel told the media at that time. 

Cedrick’s wife Daniela said life in Israel was difficult for Imelda because she never learned Hebrew. 

The decision to approve permanent residency for Enrico was made following a recommendation from the Population and Immigration Authority, after Arbel requested that the director address the family’s legal status.

Knesset Member Israel Forer, head of the Aliyah and Absorption Committee, supported the move to grant Enrico permanent status.

“The decision to grant Enrico status is a tribute to Cedric's bravery and sacrifice for the country, and we will continue to stand with these families who raised their children to serve and defend the country,” Forer said.