4 May 2004 – In a formal diplomatic note circulated to diplomatic missions in Manila, Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert reiterated the invitation of the Philippine Government for international monitors to visit the Philippines and observe the conduct of elections on 10 May 2004.

“Our government’s openness to the visit of international election monitors reflects our desire to mobilize all forces that can help ensure the orderly conduct of elections,” Secretary Albert said.

In an earlier statement, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo had said “the presence of international observers will greatly help ensure the integrity, transparency, impartiality, and credibility of our electoral process.  In the
past, a lack of confidence in the process had undermined and weakened Philippine democracy.  Fostering an atmosphere of openness and confidence in the electoral exercise will encourage citizen participation in this endeavor.”

The Secretary said that in her diplomatic note, the Philippine Government “reiterates its invitation for international governmental and non-governmental election observers” to monitor the 10 May 2004 elections and that applications can be filed directly with the COMELEC.

“International election observers would be most welcome.  In the Philippines, we provide the widest democratic space and place the highest value on transparency and accountability,” Secretary Albert said.

“We have received many applications from governments and non-governmental organizations.  Many have already been processed and we are looking forward to more applications,” she added. END.