A total of 100 metric tons of relief supplies were donated by Taiwan to the Philippines Jan. 26, underscoring the government’s commitment to helping the New Southbound Policy target country bounce back from Typhoon Rai, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Presided over by MOFA Deputy Minister Tien Chung-kwang, the Love from Taiwan ceremony involved Wilfredo B. Fernandez, chairman and resident representative of Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei City. The items, requested by the Philippine government, include bottled water, rice, snacks, construction materials and tools.
According to the ministry, the extreme weather event severely impacted the central and southern regions of the Philippines. Subsequent flooding and landslides affected millions of residents and caused over US$600 million in agricultural and infrastructure losses.
In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the MOFA said “#LoveFromTaiwan is en route to the #Philippines. Deputy Minister Tien proudly presented nearly 100 tons of essential items & building materials to MECO Chairman Fernandez. The #Taiwan public-private sector supplies will keep the Super #TyphoonRai bounceback on the fast track!”
A key plank in the government’s national development strategy, the NSP seeks to deepen Taiwan’s agricultural, business, cultural, education, tourism and trade ties with the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, six South Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. (DL-E)
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