23 May 2006 – Consul General Cecilia B. Rebong of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, USA reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Consulate has so far received US$12,496 in donations from the Filipino-American community in northeastern USA for the victims of the landslide that hit Guinsaugon, St. Bernard, Southern Leyte on 19 February 2006.

“Compassion for those in need can be seen through the generosity and concern of our kababayans who were shattered by this latest tragedy. We hope that our prayers and support can provide the hope needed to rebuild the lives and the future of those affected by this tragedy,” Consul General Rebong said.

The Consul General said that the donation will be remitted to the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC for transmittal to the National Disaster Coordinating Council together with donations received from other states.

Consul General Rebong informed the Department that some individuals and organizations have also sent their donations to ANCOP Foundation for Project Kalinga Leyte, and to the Archdiocese of Southern Leyte through Bishop Precioso D. Cantillas of Maasin.

The Consul General added that the Consulate General will continue to receive donations for the Leyte fundraising until the end of June 2006.   Meanwhile, various Filipino organizations continue to undertake fundraising projects. The list of donors is shown in the Consulate’s website, www.pcgny.net.  END