Phl to continue deployment of peacekeepers to Golan Heights subject to condition

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The Philippine government will continue to deploy Filipino peacekeepers to Golan Heights provided that the United Nations will improve the security measures for them, a senior government official said today.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said this was the condition set by President Benigno S. Aquino III after an assessment team, of which he is a member, submitted its recommendation to him.

"Subject to meeting considerations which the Philippines has made to enhance the security and safety of our peacekeepers, the President has expressed the Philippines is prepared to continue its UNDOF (United Nations Disengagement Observer Force) participation," he said.

Del Rosario added that the president has agreed to continue with the deployment of the 340 contingent until Aug. 11, when the rotational process will be determined.

Aquino had ordered a review on the deployment of Filipino peacekeepers abroad, particularly in Golan Heights, after Syrian rebels seized some of them in two separate occasions. One of the Filipino soldiers was even hurt when hostilities occurred in the area.