STATEMENT OF H.E. DR. ALBERTO G. ROMULO
SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

 On the present conflict in Lebanon
 21 July 2006

The present conflict in Lebanon has precipitated a serious crisis as national governments endeavor to ensure the safety and security of their citizens and migrant workers. 

A significant number of the estimated 30,000 Filipinos in Lebanon are already housed in Philippine government-run shelters or in churches. Evacuation of the first batch of 292 Filipinos is on-going. 

On behalf of the citizens, civilians and non-combatants of every nationality caught in the crossfire in Lebanon, we call on all parties to consider an immediate ceasefire leading to negotiation and a peaceful solution to the on-going conflict. 

Many Filipinos as well as other nationals in the region only wish to stay alive, earn their keep and then return home. 

We acknowledge the difficulties that bear on the situation but we appeal in the name of humanity to all parties to spare the innocent, the workers and their families from any harm or accident. 

For the hope for peace to become a reality, peace must be pursued at all cost and at whatever sacrifice. 

We therefore appeal for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of hostilities to spare from further harm the innocent and non-combatants in the region. END 
 
 

/jay

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