29 December 2003 – Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert today reiterated the deep sense of loss of the Filipino people over the deaths in the recent earthquake in Iran and said that the Philippines is exploring ways to offer its disaster relief and rescue expertise and experts to the people of Iran by working with the United Nations.  The Secretary also confirmed that no Filipinos were hurt or killed in the earthquake.

“We share the deep sense of loss of the brave people of Iran and pray that they find the strength and fortitude to overcome this disaster,” the Secretary said.

“I have instructed our Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York to work with UN disaster and humanitarian agencies in offering some of our experts in disaster relief to help the people of Iran,” the Secretary added.

“In terms of disaster relief and humanitarian assistance, our strength lies in our expertise and experience.  Sadly, we to have been victims of natural disasters and we have learned to deal with these disasters by actually being on the frontlines.  We can offer, through the United Nations, and perhaps in cooperation with outer countries or international organizations, our experts,” Secretary Albert said. “We will also be exploring other ways, within our capabilities and resources, of helping the people of Iran in their hour of
need,” she added. END.