19 January 2004 – Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert today expressed appreciation for Belgium’s donation of 33,000 Euros  (approximately P 2.24 million) for the victims of the recent landslides that hit Southern Leyte and some areas in Mindanao.

“We were deeply touched by the kind gesture of the Belgian Government for its contribution of 33,000 Euros for the victims of the landslides in Southern Leyte and we give our assurances that this will be put to good use.  This will certainly make a difference for the people of Southern Leyte, as they begin rebuilding and restoring their lives to normalcy after such a tragic event,” the Secretary said.

“Belgium’s contribution is an expression of its solidarity with the Filipino people and a clear manifestation of our ties,” the Secretary added.

On 24 December 2003, the Belgian Council of Ministers approved the proposal of Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Louis Michel to make a contribution for the victims of the landslides in Southern Leyte.  The funds were channelled through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in cooperation with the Belgian Red Cross and the Philippine Red Cross, and will be used for the implementation of an emergency relief programme for food, housing, water and sanitation.  END.