22 July 2005 – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, United States of America reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that they continue to monitor the case of Filipino actress Nora Aunor and is ready to provide her with whatever possible assistance she may need.

According to the report of Mr. Anthony A.L. Mandap, Acting Head of the Consulate General, they are also coordinating with Ms. Nori Sayo who is the Manager of Ms. Aunor regarding the needs of the actress and on certain statements that she has made in an interview by a Philippine television network, which will be aired this weekend.

According to Mr. Mandap, Ms. Sayo confirmed that Ms. Aunor indeed made a statement regarding the help she is seeking from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.   Ms. Sayo clarified to the Philippine Consulate that Ms. Aunor was simply requesting that she personally speak to President Arroyo.  Ms. Sayo further explained that Ms. Aunor considers the President “a close friend” and that “she is not expecting any special treatment from the President but simple sympathy from a friend.”

Mr. Mandap said that the Consulate endeavored to contact Ms. Aunor personally on 21 July after she made these statements to seek clarification on the matter.  However, the actress was not available.   The Consulate was instead able to speak with Ms. Sayo.

Ms. Sayo affirmed to the Consulate that Ms. Aunor acknowledges the assistance being extended by the Philippine Consulate General.

Further, Ms. Sayo informed the Consulate that Ms. Aunor still supports President Arroyo and shall remain the President’s friend.

Ms. Aunor is facing charges of illegal possession of a prohibited substance before San Francisco court.  The Actress has secured her own defense counsel Atty. Claire Espina who requested the public as well as the Consulate General that all inquiries pertaining to Ms. Aunor’s case be referred only to the legal counsel.  END
 
 
 

/bjg