Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas F. Ople today expressed the deep appreciation of the Philippine Government for the messages of support given by the members of the international community during the Makati Incident last weekend.

“The messages of support from the international and diplomatic community made a big difference.  They provide great comfort to us at a time of crisis and also clearly indicated to the mutineers that their resort to arms would be a total failure,” Secretary Ople said.

“The messages of support were almost overwhelming given the short period of the crisis.  The President received calls from world leaders, while I received calls from ministers of foreign affairs.  I also deeply appreciate the calls I received from the diplomatic community in Manila.  I was personally touched by these gestures,” the Secretary said.

The Secretary also expressed appreciation for the statements of support that were issued in the different capitals of the world. “The swift action by the diplomatic community in Manila and by our ambassadors at their posts, ensured that world leaders were kept updated on developments,” the Secretary said.

“I am glad that I had the opportunity to personally thank the diplomatic community when I gave them a briefing on the Makati Incident last Monday.  I have also commended the work of the officers and staff at our overseas posts,” the Secretary said.   During the briefing, the Secretary also expressed his appreciation for the support given by foreign governments during the Makati mutiny.  He said that their gestures signify their commitment to democracy and to their relations with the Philippines.    The Secretary mentioned that the statements of support of foreign governments helped to reinforce the fact that the rebels could expect nothing but isolation and indifference from the international community.  END.