In Christian-majority Philippines, divide over Israel-Gaza war down to more than just faith

Many Christians identify with ‘Israel being the promised land’, but economic reasons are also behind their support for the country, observers say

Those in the pro-Palestinian camp include Muslims, rights activists and young Filipinos who have gained sympathy for their cause on social media

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Protesters march to the US embassy in Manila during a rally in support of the Palestinian people on November 14, 2023. Photo: AFP

Published: 9:30am, 11 Jan 2024Updated: 10:35pm, 21 Jan 2024

Jennifer, 29, spent part of the holidays crocheting drink coasters shaped like watermelons and selling them to friends and relatives to raise funds for the children of Gaza and newly-arrived Filipino-Palestinian refugees.

“It seemed like a nice way to use my talents and to help this need that is so urgent,” said Jennifer, a historian who asked to use a pseudonym “to avoid harassment”.

She chose the watermelon design after learning that “watermelons are symbols of Palestinian resistance because they mimic the colours of their flag”.

Jennifer managed to raise 7,600 pesos (US$450) with this crocheting project for the refugees and for the United Nations’ Children in Gaza crisis campaign.

Some of the coasters Jennifer sold to friends and relatives to raise funds for Palestinians. Photo: Raissa Robles

Like many Filipinos, Jennifer has strong opinions about the fighting in the Middle East, triggered by Hamas’ assault on Israel on October 7, and the latter’s retaliatory attacks on Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

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