On Tuesday, January 28th, the Philippines Embassy in Israel, in cooperation with the Holon Institute of Technology, the Municipality of Holon, and the family of the late Max Weissler, hosted a special screening of the film Quezon’s Game. The event was a tribute to the historical humanitarian efforts of President Manuel Quezon in providing refuge to Jewish people fleeing the Holocaust.
The evening began with opening remarks from Professor Eduard Yakubov, President of the Holon Institute of Technology; Charge d’Affaires of the Philippines, Mr. Anthony Achilles L. Mandap; Ms. Michal Weiler-Tal, Director of the South-East Asia Department of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Michael Sutovskii of the Holon Municipality; and Mr. Danny Weissler, son of the late Max Weissler.
Professor Yakubov emphasized the institute’s commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and noted that the issue is deeply personal for him, having lost three family members to the Holocaust. He also highlighted the troubling global rise in antisemitism and reaffirmed the institute’s role in training future leaders of Israeli society since 1969.
Acting Ambassador Mandap began his remarks by reciting the Hebrew blessing for the release of hostages, expressing gratitude for the return of Israeli hostages, and hoping for the safe return of those still held captive. He also honored the four Filipino citizens who lost their lives on October 7th while protecting those in their care. Reflecting on Quezon’s Game, Mandap emphasized that the film serves as a reminder that acts of kindness and humanity can prevail even in the darkest moments of history.
Ms. Weiler-Tal highlighted the strong historical ties between Israel and the Philippines, rooted in two pivotal events: President Manuel Quezon’s Open Door policy, which saved 1,300 Jewish lives during the Holocaust, and the Philippines' crucial support for the establishment of the State of Israel in the 1947 United Nations vote. She also cited a modern-day act of bravery by Camille Jesalva, a Filipina caretaker who saved the life of 95-year-old Nitza Hefetz during the October 7th attacks.
Representing the Municipality of Holon, Mr. Sutovskii welcomed attendees and underscored the importance of educating people about President Quezon’s Open Door policy. He emphasized that events like this bring together guests from diverse backgrounds to reflect on history’s lessons and promote humanitarian values.
Danny Weissler shared the personal story of his late father, Max Weissler, who escaped the horrors of the Holocaust and found refuge in the Philippines. He described how his father was welcomed with open arms and remained deeply connected to the country for the rest of his life. The Weissler family was instrumental in erecting a monument in the Holocaust memorial park in Rishon Lezion dedicated to President Quezon’s Open Door policy.
During World War II and the Holocaust, the Philippines, under President Manuel Quezon’s leadership, took a courageous and compassionate stand by offering asylum to Jewish refugees escaping Nazi persecution.
In the 1930s, as antisemitic policies intensified in Germany and across Europe, the Philippine government welcomed Jewish refugees despite political challenges. With the support of American Governor-General Paul McNutt and other key figures, Quezon worked to facilitate their safe arrival and integration into Philippine society. The film Quezon’s Game makes this story accessible via film, and thanks to the active role of the embassy of the Philippines embassy in Israel, the film has been shown in several cities throughout Israel.
The special screening of Quezon’s Game in Holon served not only as a historical commemoration but also as a reminder of the importance of preserving the lessons of the past for future generations, and standing up for morality against all odds.
https://tel-avivpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Steven Aiello
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan
