Asean expresses sympathy for Phl flood victims

MANILA, Philippines - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has expressed sympathy for the victims of massive flooding spawned by torrential monsoon rains in the country.

ASEAN secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan said ASEAN is ready to assist and provide emergency relief to the Philippines.

“As we celebrate ASEAN Day today, we commemorate what brings us together as a regional community. And as a regional community, we also turn our concern towards the Philippines whose people are currently enduring the aftermath of a disastrous monsoon,” Surin said during the 45th founding anniversary of ASEAN last Wednesday.

“We salute the efforts of the government and other humanitarian actors to save thousands of lives as we convey our assurance that ASEAN stands ready to assist and provide emergency relief as soon as requested,” he said.

Surin warned the public that health risks could surface if affected communities take no precautions.

“We hope the improvement in water level will continue until the Philippines is fully recovered,” he said.

The Jakarta-based ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance Center is closely monitoring the situation in the Philippines and preparing for some response options should there be a need or if the situation gets worse.

“As the ASEAN Humanitarian Assistance coordinator, I would continue to work closely with the AHA Centre to monitor the situation and initiate necessary actions,” Surin said.