Mayor seeks extension of Korean troop’s stay

TANAUAN, LEYTE , Philippines   â€” The local government unit of this town has urged the national government to extend the stay of Araw Forces of South Korea in the country for one more year to continue with their rehab works in typhoon-ravaged areas.

Mayor Pelagio Tecson, according to a PNA report, said a lot of facilities that are currently covered by the rehabilitation work of the Korean military contingent are yet to be repaired thus there is a need for them to stay longer.

Earlier, Col. Chul Won Lee, commanding officer of the Araw Forces, said a request from the town mayor was necessary for them to stay longer to help in the repair of damaged government facilities, especially school buildings.

The Korean military contingent kicked off its repair works in selected Leyte towns in January and will end in December this year under an original agreement with the national government.

Last week, a formal turnover of the newly repaired seven school buildings of the Malaguicay Elementary School repaired by the Korean troops was held with the presence of Major Gen. John Bonafos, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Central Command.

The Korean contingent also presented to Bonafos and Tecson a newly-constructed playground for the pupils of the elementary school.

Aside from gracing the turnover ceremony, Bonafos also visited the base camp of the Araw Forces and extended his condolences over the tragic death of more than 200 South Korean people, mostly children, in a ferry tragedy. A candlelight ceremony was held, adding solemnity to the activity.  (FREEMAN)