APEC meeting moved to Manila

MANILA, Philippines - The approaching typhoon forced the transfer of the Informal Senior Officials Meeting (ISOM) of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum from Legazpi City in Albay to Manila.

Malacañang said they decided to move the meeting to alternative venues following consultation with the APEC 2015 National Organizing Committee and other stakeholders, including Albay Gov. Joey Salceda.

Legazpi has been preparing for the ISOM that would be held from Dec. 8 to 9. The city is also slated to host other APEC-related meetings.

“While this is highly unfortunate, we have deemed it best to err on the side of prudence and ensure the safety of the delegates,” Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said in a statement.

Ochoa said the transfer of the meeting would allow the provincial government to focus on preparations for the coming typhoon, which is expected to hit the country this weekend.

“I wish to assure everyone that contingencies are in place. The government is ensuring that the rest of the activities push through, and is making preparations for the coming typhoon,” Ochoa said.

Ochoa thanked Salceda and the people of Albay for their cooperation and understanding.

“We are united in ensuring the safety and comfort of all delegates; we are likewise conscious of our abiding obligation to ensure that all steps are taken to prepare for the typhoon,” Ochoa said.

Salceda, for his part said he fully understood the decision to transfer the venue of the ISOM.

“I fully understand the decision made. There are other opportunities that Albay can take advantage of,” he said. – With Pia Lee-Brago