My Friends:

On behalf of the Philippine Government and the Filipino people, I wish to express my profound appreciation to Brunei Darussalam for their expression of concern and solidarity with the victims of the landslide in Southern Leyte.

In his message to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah conveyed his deep sadness over the lives lost to the landslide.

Brunei's generous and timely donation of US$100,000 will contribute significantly to the ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

As we continue rehabilitating the lives and rebuilding the communities drastically altered by this most unfortunate event, we continue to draw strength and encouragement from the sustained support of friends like Brunei.

We are thankful to Brunei for its abiding presence especially in difficult times for the Philippines.

We remember the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei who, in an act of generosity and compassion, also donated US$100,000 to the Philippine Government to assist flood and landslide victims in Luzon.

Indeed, these acts of kindness underscore the deep ties between our countries and peoples and show how disasters can bring peoples closer in a dramatic and emphatic demonstration of brotherhood.

Thank you.

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