Akbayan Representative Walden Bello today led a “solidarity delegation” to the Japanese Embassy here in the Philippines to express the Filipino people’s deepest sympathies to the victims of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit their country.
The delegation also sought a dialogue with Embassy officials to get updates regarding the conditions of Filipinos in Japan.
In a statement, Bello said the Philippines joins the global community in expressing its utmost solidarity with the people of Japan.
“As a country and as a people, we offer our sincerest condolences to the people of Japan as they try to rise from this unparalleled disaster. Our thoughts and best wishes go with them,” Bello said.
Bello said Japan is a home to many Filipinos who are working to earn a living or have migrated to the country. He described it as a “second home” to a vast number of Filipinos.
“Home is where the heart is. As such, our compassion goes to Japan and its people,” Bello said.
Bello who is also the Chair of the Committee on Overseas Welfare Assistance of the House of Representatives said he will attempt to coordinate with the Japanese government to provide possible assistance.
“While the support and assistance we can provide as a country is limited being a poor nation, the people of Japan can rest assured that we stand ready to help in any way possible,” Bello said.
Bello said one way to provide assistance is to help Japanese authorities secure the safety of Filipinos in Japan.
“We express our readiness to harmonize efforts to secure the lives of Filipinos in Japan. Their safety and well-being are also important to us. Hindi natin hahayaan na mag-isa harapin ng ating mga kababayan sa Japan ang malubhang trahedya na ito,” Bello added.
The “solidarity delegation” comprised of migrant rights advocates and members of Akbayan’s international committee offered flowers to embassy officials and staff. They hope that their simple and humble way will also encourage the public to express support and solidarity to the people of Japan.
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