24 May 2004 – After briefing the diplomatic community today on recent developments in the Philippines, particularly the security situation, Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert said that the diplomats not only appreciated hearing the official report of the government but also expressed confidence in the peace and stability of the country.

“The diplomats deeply appreciated this briefing.  It helped them better understand the situation.  It helped them distinguish fact from rumor.  I spoke with several diplomats after the briefing and they told me that they remain confident in the peace and stability of our country and government,” Secretary Albert said after the briefing.

Present at the briefing were Defense Secretary Eduardo R. Ermita, AFP Chief of Staff Narciso L. Abaya and representatives of the AFP and PNP.

In her opening remarks for the briefing, Secretary Albert said that “In the midst of all this color and excitement, all of us have been hearing diverse versions of the current situation in our country.  This cacophony of different voices certainly reflects the vibrancy of our democracy.  But it can also help prevent a better understanding of the true situation. Today we hope to add to what you read in the papers, hear in the news or discuss over cups of coffee.  We hope that what we present today will help clear matters,” she said in her opening remarks.

The Secretary also took the opportunity to thank the members of the diplomatic community for their role in the recently concluded overseas absentee voting. “I would like to take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to you and to your governments for the success of our overseas absentee voting.  Your kind cooperation allowed this historic event to be held without a hitch, for the first time giving our Filipinos overseas the right to choose their leaders,” the Secretary told the gathered diplomats. END.