Caucus Chronicle N I P P

Y S S

A Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 B M E

E Caucus Chronicle N I P P

I Newsletter published by the Philippine Embassy for the L

I members of the US-Philippines Congressional Friendship Caucus H P Arroyo-Bush reaffirm RP-US deep relations, lasting partnership Inside this issue: On 24 June 2008, Philip- Arroyo for her Government’s global concerns with U.S offi- Central Bank ‘09 fore- 2 pine President Gloria Macapa- strong and effective stand on cials from the State and De- cast : sustained growth gal-Arroyo and U.S. President counterterrorism and acknowl- fense Departments, and NGOs. ‘09 proposed budget to 2 George W. Bush met at the edged President Arroyo’s lead- Her other engagements also spur growth White House Oval Office to ership on the freedom agenda included meetings with Filipino Arroyo remains com- 3 reaffirm strong Philippine-U.S. and human dignity in the communities, Filipino World mitted to peace relations and to discuss issues Southeast Asian region. War II veterans and American All agencies mobilized 3 of mutual interest and concern The meeting between the business groups. for evacuees to both countries. two Presidents was part of Aside from further Fight against corrup- 4 Their discussions focused strengthening the Philippine- tion, poverty reaf- on the global food shortage, U.S. alliance, President Arroyo firmed defense cooperation, Myanmar took the opportunity to person- Coral Triangle Initia- 4 and regional issues, the Doha ally thank the US Senate for its tive: “We are going to Round and economic aid. historic 96-1 vote in favor of make this happen” At a press event following the Veterans Benefits Bill call- Ambassador’s Corner 5 the meeting of the two leaders, ing for additional benefits to In Memoriam: Rep. 5 President Arroyo said that Filipino WWII veterans and Stephanie Tubbs Jones America is a strong ally of the call on member of the U.S. Photos: Arroyo’s US 6 Philippines that has been sup- House of Representatives to Visit 23-28 June ‘08 porting her Government’s ef- pass the bill on the House floor. Tourist arrivals up 8 forts to strengthen the economy President Arroyo’s ten day For this purpose, Presi- Photos: 4th Ambassa- 9 and reinforce Philippine de- working visit to the United dent Arroyo met with the Phil- dors Tour mocracy. President Arroyo States on 21-30 June 2008 that ippines-US Friendship Caucus, Gaa: Statements in 1 0 stated that, “The Philippines saw her make stops in San a group composed of members Congress boost quest and the United States have a Francisco, Washington D.C. of the US House of Representa- for justice strong relationship, and we are and New York. tives who have openly sup- here today to discuss important In addition to meeting ported moves to strengthen House Floor statements 1 1 for WW II Filvets bilateral issues with President with President Bush at the relations between the Philip- Bush, members of his admini- White House, President Ar- pines and the United States and R P U P D A T E S stration, and congressional royo held a series of meetings to pass legislation recognizing  RP to host second leaders.” In his remarks at the on a wide range of issues in- the services and granting bene- Global Forum on Mi- same press event, President cluding the environment, secu- fits to Filipino WWII veterans. gration and Develop- Bush congratulated President rity, human rights, and other ment in October; UN Secretary General to attend Amb. Gaa leads Filipino-Americans in RP tour  June ’08 remittances post 19-year record at Ambassador Willy C. the Philippine from 12-18 July pines to rediscover Filipino US$ 1.5B Gaa, together with the Philip- 2008. culture and see for themselves  Biosafety clearing pine Ambassador to Canada The ACGTD Tour, a the economic and political house launched Jose S. Brillantes and the Con- joint project of the Department developments in the country. suls General in the United of Foreign Affairs, the Depart- In this year’s tour, the  Arroyo on Forbes list States and Canada, led 350 ment of Tourism and the De- participants were also briefed of most powerful participants from North Amer- partment of Trade and Indus- on how they can help bring women ica to the 4th Ambassadors, try, aims to bring Filipino- growth by investing in the  Overall crime rate Consuls General and Tourism Americans, Filipino-Canadian provinces under the One Town drops Directors’ (ACGTD) Tour to and their families to the Philip- One Product (OTOP) (p.8 pls) Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 2

RP Central Bank chief forecasts ‘09 sustained growth Growth of the local economy is seen to continue in down of the country’s major trading partners also plays a 2009 amid the current tight economic condition that re- big role in the growth prospect of the local economy. sults from the development in the global economy, ac- Tetangco, who met with a team from the Japan Credit cording to the head of the central bank of the Philippines. Rating Agency (JCRA) Wednesday, said this was what he Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas explained to the JCRA team (BSP) Governor Amando when asked about the impact of Tetangco Jr. reiterated their the US slowdown to the country projection of a lower inflation and the higher inflation to eco- next year but along with this is nomic growth. sustained growth for the coun- He said that although the region try. “Inflation has an impact but is now less dependent on the US there will be an improvement as a trading partner, it is still next year,” he told reporters. affected because there is no total Inflation continued to surge decoupling. with the July figure already at He said that although there is 12.2 percent, from the previous higher trade exchange among month’s 11.4 percent. Asian countries particularly be- Monetary officials forecast cause raw materials are proc- inflation to peak this October essed in some countries, here, before going down before the these products still end in the year ends. Tetangco explained President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led on 25 August US market. 2008 the groundbreaking ceremonies marking the start of that slowdown of the economy the construction of the $1.25-billion Global Gateway Lo- On inflation, Tetangco assured was a result of surging inflation. gistics City (GGLC) in Clark Freeport Zone which is ex- the JCRA team that BSP offi- He, however, said that this in- pected to generate 35,000 new jobs. Shown from left are: cials were “prudent” in address- Sec. Edgardo Pamintuan, chairman of the Subic Clark flation is imported in origin Alliance for Development Council, President Arroyo, ing the increase in inflation, because its real cause is the Sheikh Ahmad Dawood Salman Al Saba, member of the which he said was supply- increase in prices of oil in the Kuwaiti Royal Family, Victor Jose Luciano, president of driven. Clark International Airport Corp., Dennis Wright, presi- world market. dent of the Peregrine Development International, Dr. Al He said they first observed if the He said that in the domestic Mahdy Jassaf, KGL chairman of the board, Nestor Man- situation will spill-over the de- front, demand remained high gio, chairman, Clark International Airport Corp., and mand side and when it did, Mayor Marino Morales of Mabalacat, Pampanga. (Alfredo although the higher inflation Francisco/OPS-NIB photo) monetary officials acted imme- will have an impact in terms of diately by increasing policy a decrease in purchases of consumers. rates accordingly. “That’s why we have always emphasized that it’s im- BSP has raised its policy rates by a total of 75 basis portant to maintain price stability, which is important in points since last June. long-term economic stability,” he stressed. Aside from the To date, its borrowing rate is at 5.75 percent while impact of higher oil prices, the BSP chief said the slow- lending rate is at 7.75 percent.

2009 proposed RP budget to spur growth Amidst strong challenges, the government’s eco- ves said the government’s fiscal program will remain on nomic managers expressed optimism that there would be track in 2009. an economic upturn in 2009. By next year, Teves said the net financing require- Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya, during the pres- ments are expected to drop by 37 percent and the national entation of the proposed 2009 national budget before the government’s debt to decline by 45 percent of the Gross House Committee on Appropriations, said that they see a Domestic Product (GDP). He acknowledged that there is a brighter economy for the country by next year with the need to double efforts in order to enhance the govern- continuing decline in the price of crude oil in the world ment’s revenue collection. market. The top 10 departments in terms of budget allocation Andaya said the continued economic growth of the are the Department of Education, Department of Public neighboring countries is also a contributory factor to the Works and Highways, Department of Interior and Local improving economy with its positive effect to the coun- Government, Department of National Defense, Depart- try’s export industry. ment of Agriculture, Department of Health, Department of “We expect the economy to bounce back, especially Transportation and Communications, Department of in agriculture and mining sectors and we see a better eco- Agrarian Reform, Department of Finance, the Judiciary nomic upturn for 2009. Finance Secretary Margarito Te- and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 3

Arroyo remains committed to peace, bares shift in premise for peace efforts President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ernment’s objective is to end all armed announced on 22 August 2008 a shift in the rebellion in the country, thus any engage- basic premise of the Philippine government with all armed groups from here on in ment’s peace efforts from talking with the will focus on disarmament, demobilization armed groups to holding discussions with and rehabilitation (DDR). the communities in the conflict areas. “DDR is about the people and govern- “The focus of our talks shall shift from ment telling armed groups to give the armed groups to the communities. The up armed struggle. Change shall be defined parameters governing our negotiations shall primarily by the people and the govern- be a balance between constitutionality and ment,” she said. public sentiment,” the President said, as she The shift in the government’s ap- pointed out that in order to promote the proach to ending conflicts underscores its growth of industries and most especially the rejection of any armed struggle as a means best interest of the people, government must of achieving political and social change and maintain a peaceful and orderly society. a reaffirmation of its commitment to democ- She said the change in the government’s racy. approach to end the Mindanao conflict was “From negotiations, our focus shall prompted by the atrocities committed re- shift to dialogues with the communities, or cently by forces of the Moro Islamic Lib- government conducting authentic conversa- eration Front (MILF) in North Cotabato, tions or dialogues with the people,” she Lanao del Norte, Sarangani and Maguin- said. danao. The President reiterated that all armed MILF forces went on a rampage dur- groups must account for their actions not ing the last two weeks killing more than 40 only to the government but more impor- civilians, including women, children and the tantly to the people. elderly and burning houses and looting “The force of arms does not entitle any properties. armed group to represent the The President explained that the gov- people,” she stressed. Commander Alvin Cunto and 30 of his men from the 20th Battalion, 102nd Base Camp, BIAF, MILF All government agencies mobilized to provide chose to defect to the government side and return to the folds of the assistance to Mindanao evacuees law because they could not take the inhuman instruction of Abdulla It’s all systems go as President Gloria the thousands of evacuees in Mindanao Macapaar alias Bravo, the com- Macapagal-Arroyo mobilized on 27 August would be sourced out from the budget of the mander of 102nd Brigade, to kill 2008 all national government agencies to National Disaster Coordinating Council children, women, old and young lead in providing assistance to evacuees (NDCC). people during their murderous rampage in Kauswagan and Ko- who were displaced by the abuses and other During the meeting, Dureza said the lambugan last Aug. 18, 2008. He forms of atrocities by the lawless elements President ordered NDCC Executive Direc- said that he cannot, in his con- of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front tor Glenn Rabonza “to hit the ground more science, take the lives of innocent (MILF). intensively now because there is a growing and unarmed civilians just because of Bravo’s whims and diabolical Press Secretary Jesus G. Dureza said number of residents who may need immedi- intent to pressure the government the President issued the directive this after- ate assistance at this point in time.” to sign the MOA-AD. Cunto and his noon during the National Security Council He also said the President thanked the men were received by Iligan City (NSC) Cabinet Group meeting in Mala- donor community which offered help and Mayor Laurence Cruz, Usec Re- nato L. Ebarle of the Office of the cañang. other humanitarian assistance to those who Executive Secretary and military Dureza said the President named are adversely affected by the military and officials Thursday (Aug. 21). (OPS/ Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to police drives to capture the renegade MILF NIB Photo) head the distribution of relief assistance groups responsible in the treacherous at- directly to the families affected. tacks in Lanao del Norte, Saranggani and “Probably, more funds will be Iligan City. downloaded. The President had called on Dureza added that the Mindanao Eco- everyone, especially the national govern- nomic Development Council (MEDCO) is ment to pitch in,” Dureza told reporters. also tasked to collate all these efforts and is Dureza said that the funds for the reha- now coordinating with the donor commu- bilitation and other forms of assistance to nity. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 4

Arroyo reaffirms commitment to fight corruption in MCC Meet

President Arroyo reaffirmed the MCC that the Philippines is serious in an MCC Mission to Manila on 8-10 Philippines’ strong commitment to its resolve to control corruption, as October 2008. fight corruption and poverty in a high- “part of the maturing of Philippine President Arroyo further ex- level meeting with Officials of the politics.” plained that RP should have passing Millennium Challenge Corporation MCC underscored that it is dedi- scores on both public expenditure on (MCC) on 23 June 2008, during her cated to the on-going success of the primary education and fiscal policy working visit in Washington, DC. Philippines in implementing the Mil- since RP is above all the requirements “It is a big honor to be granted lennium Challenge Account (MCA) on education, and that the economy Compact eligibility…it is a recogni- Threshold program and in pursuing did not have a deficit in 2007. While tion of our efforts to fight poverty and Compact status. “The consultative RP “did not pass the public expendi- corruption,” President Arroyo said in process is very important to ensure ture on health (indicator), spending on her opening statement at the meeting that a Compact program will be im- sanitation should be included” in the with MCC CEO Ambassador John plemented effectively,” said Ambassa- computation of RP’s score. Danilovich. The President assured dor Danilovich who will be heading

Coral Triangle Initiative: ‘We Are Going to Make It Happen’ - Arroyo “The Coral Triangle Initiative or pines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation CTI is proof-positive that a sustainable Malaysia, Timor Leste, and the Solo- (APEC) meeting in Peru, the Coral environmental model is not only possi- mon Islands. Triangle Initiative (CTI) Senior Offi- ble, it is necessary. And we are going President Arroyo further declared cials and Ministerial Meetings later in to make sure it happens,” President at the session that “we must not be the year, a planned business roundta- Arroyo said before a Stakeholders’ tempted as a nation, a region, or the ble in early 2009, and ultimately, the Session on the Coral Triangle Initia- world, to abandon a balanced approach CTI Heads of State Summit scheduled tive at the Crystal Ballroom of the like the CTI. It’s good for our people, for May 2009 in Manado, Indonesia. Willard Hotel on 23 June 2008, one of for jobs, for growth, and for a healthy, The CT6 countries of the region the highlights of her Working Visit in sustainable environment, to take initia- harbor the greatest diversity of marine the US. tives like the CTI work.” life on Earth, producing valuable com- Co-organized by the Embassy of Mr. Christopher Lischewski, modities and ecosystem services that the Philippines, the World Wildlife CEO of Bumble Bee Foods, the largest provide food security and income to Fund, the Nature Conservancy and branded seafood company in North more than 120 million people. The Conservation International, the session America, and USAID Acting Deputy Coral Triangle is recognized as an area served as a unique platform for a high- Administrator James Kunder were the of global significance, blessed with level exchange of views among corpo- two (2) main discussants at the ses- over 75% of known coral species, over rate and public sector leaders inter- sion . 30% of the world’s coral reefs, over ested in fostering sustainable marine The ideas generated at the lunch- 3,000 species of fish, and the greatest resource management in the six coun- eon will seed upcoming discussions extent of mangrove forests of any re- tries of the Coral Triangle – the Philip- among regional decision-makers at the gion in the world.

Embassy hosts reception for Congressional Legislative Staff Association

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa hosted the officers and members of the U.S. Congressional Legislative Staff Association (CLSA) at the Philippine Embassy on 31 July 2008. Representing 535 congressional offices from every state in the Union, CLSA serves as a conduit for panel discussions, briefings, and embassy events with ambassadors and diplomats from nations of vital interest to U.S. foreign policy. From Left: Ambassador Willy Gaa delivering his welcome remarks; CLSA President Brian Clifford delivering his response to the Ambassador’s remarks; Ambassador and Mrs. Gaa with officers and members of the CLSA watching a cultural presentation of native Filipino dances performed by the Pilipino-American Cultural Society (PACAS); Members of PACAS performing a traditional folk dance called “Aray” (Ouch). Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 5

In Memoriam Ambassador’s STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES C o r n e r 10 Sept. 1949-20 Aug. 2008 Democrat, 11th District, Ohio Chair, Committee on Standards of Official Conduct Member, Committee on Ways and Means

Just a few months ago, Representative Tubbs Jones signified her deep interest in joining the U.S.-Philippine Friendship Caucus. She already was a strong supporter of Philippine interests in Congress, particularly on the issue of Filipino World War II veterans. The Philip- pines grieves the loss of a great legislator and one of its staunchest allies in the U.S. Congress. Representative Tubbs Jones was a lawyer and started her career in public service serving as a judge in Cleveland Municipal Court of Last 23-25 June, Philippine President Glo- Ohio in 1981. She had many “firsts” in her life. She was the first Afri- ria Macapagal-Arroyo visited Washington can-American to serve as a judge of the Common Pleas in Ohio, first to D.C. to further strengthen Philippine-U.S. serve as Cuyahoga County prosecutor, and also the first to represent relations. Ohio in Congress. She also came to the nation’s capital to Representative Tubbs Jones was first elected to Congress in 1998. thank the U.S. Senate and ask the U.S. She was an active member of the Democratic party having been a co- House of Representatives to pass a Veter- chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee and a chairwoman ans Benefits Bill that would recognize and of the platform Committee at the Democratic National Convention in provide benefits for the services of Filipino 2004. veterans in World War II. She was a strong supporter of free trade and took a most active It was an opportune time for the President role in fighting to pass the U.S. Peru Trade Promotion in November to undertake the visit. She was able to review with President Bush the robust sup- 2007. She was chosen by Speaker Pelosi as chairperson of the House port and assistance his administration has Ethics Committee to monitor the standards of ethical conduct of the been giving to the Philippines, shortly be- members of the House. fore he will be handing over the reins of Her constituents loved her so dearly and routinely reelected her government to a new president. against Republican oppositions since 1998 -- backing her with over- Following the 9/11 attacks and its resulting whelming votes. It is noteworthy to mention, that no Republican can- impact on the global security environment, didate opposed her in the election of 2004. Philippine-U.S. relations quickly evolved She was known for her compassion and warmth. People say that into a strategic partnership that has proven one of her strengths was her ability to empathize and connect with effective in addressing common security everyday people She always had that ready, infectious and high- and economic issues and interests in the wattage smile for everybody which made people comfortable with her. region. She was enthusiastic in giving assistance and responded quickly to The visit enabled our President to person- those who needed help. ally express to President Bush, the U.S. Her colleagues extolled her independent spirit. She gave her Congress and most importantly, the Ameri- commitment even to “political unknowns.” They said that “once you can people, our continuing commitment to earned her endorsement, you got her unlimited and undying support.” this partnership, and in efforts to face com- Her friends also knew how she valued friendship. She was loyal mon security threats and promote peace and and dedicated to them and even maintained friendships developed in democracy. While in Washington, President Arroyo her youth. held talks with the Millennium Challenge Representative Tubbs Jones was married to Mervyn L. Jones, Corporation and hosted a lunch for the Sr., who died on 2 October 2003. She is survived by their only child, stakeholders of the Coral Triangle Initia- Mervyn Leroy Jones, Jr. tive. She also met with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Speaker Nancy Pe- losi. These events, together with the other activities of the President, reflect the depth and breadth of our relationship with the United States. In this day where technology has made long distance communication quite convenient, there is still no substitute to the value and significance of personal interaction, especially between friends and allies. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 6

Working Visit of H.E. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to the United State of America, 23-28 June 2008

1 2 3 SAN FRANCISCO: (1) Shortly after arriving in San Francisco, President Arroyo holds a teleconference with Cabinet officials in Manila on Typhoon Frank. FRESNO: (2) With Atty. Arroyo and Rep. Amelita Villarosa as well as the rest of her delegation shortly after Sunday Mass with the Filipino Community. (3) With Filipino healthcare workers at Fresno Community Hospital and Medical Center.

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WASHINGTON DC: (1) With Senator Barbara Boxer (R-CA), Chair of the Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee shortly after a meeting with the other members of the Committee at the Capitol. (2) With President George W. Bush at the Oval Office. (3) At the Pentagon with Defense Secretary Robert Gates where the two discussed RP-US defense and security cooperation. (4) With Representative Bob Filner (D-CA), Chair of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA), Ranking Minority Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee at a dinner hosted by the President where she awarded them with the Order of the Golden Heart. (5) With Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and members of the Philippine House of Representatives at the same dinner where Speaker Pelosi received the Order of the Golden Heart. (6) With Millennium Challenge Corporation President and CEO Ambassador John Danilovich to discuss the status of the Compact Proposal of the Philippines. (7) Giving a press conference to announce the decision of the US government to send humanitarian aid to the victims of Typhoon Frank, with Undersecretary of State John Negroponte, Foreign Affairs Sec- retary Alberto G. Romulo and Presidential Spokesperson Jess Dureza. (8) Watching approvingly as Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap shakes hands with US Agriculture Secretary Edward Schaefer after the two sign a Framework Agreement on Cooperation in Agricul- tural-Related Fields between RP Department of Agriculture and the US Department of Agriculture. (9) With Filipino World War II Veter- ans at a reception to honor them and members of the US Congress who have been supporting them. (10) With leaders of the US Chamber of Commerce during cocktails before the start of a dinner hosted by the US-ASEAN Business Council and the US Chamber of Commerce in her honor. In photo are Matthew Daley, President of the US-ASEAN Business Council, Dan Christman, Senior VP for International Affairs of the US Chamber of Commerce, Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, and Frank Wisner, Vice Chairman of the AIG group. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 7

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WASHINGTON DC: (1) Shortly before the lunch hosted for the Stakeholders of the Coral Triangle Initiative by the Philippine Embassy, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy. (L-R) President and CEO of WWF Carter Rob- erts, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenny, Acting Deputy Administrator USAID, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation John Danilovich and CEO of Bumble Bee Foods Christopher Lischewski. (2) The Na- tional Disaster Coordinating Council in Manila in a video conference with the President to discuss the search, rescue and relief opera- tions in the aftermath of Typhoon Frank. (3) Shortly before delivering her remarks in a gathering of Filipino community members from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. (4) With Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Republican Presidential Candidate, shortly before her return trip to the Philippines. Earlier in the week, the President spoke to Senator Barack Obama (D-IL), Democratic Presidential Candi- date.

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4 5 6 NEW YORK CITY: (1) At the signing of an investment agreement between Libby Fruits of Libby NTC Marketing and DTI Secretary Peter Favila. (2) At the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Euronext and the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) at the NYSE . The MOU, which calls for the modernization of the PSE System, was signed between PSE chairman Jose Vitug (left) and NYSE Euronext chief executive officer Duncan Niederauer. (3) At the signing of a $1M lease agreement between Clark Economic Zone and Berthaphil.(4) With Filipino nurses and health workers at the Bellevue Hospital where she also took a short walking tour. (5) Addressing members of the Filipino community from New York, New Jersey and Pennsyl- vania. (6) At the UN endorsing the candidature of Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago to the International Court of Justice during a reception hosted for the UN Permanent Representatives.

Photos by: Presidential Close-In Photographer, Office of the Press Secretary-News Information Bureau, and the Philippine Embassy. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 8

Tourist arrivals up 6.1 percent in Jan-July'08

Tourist arrivals from January to July market share to the overall arrivals. Hong Let me say once again, 2008 totaled 1.919 million posting a growth Kong, another turn-around market, showed that Filipinos in the rate of 6.1 percent over 1.8 million in the a four percent hike in visitor arrivals. United States and same period last year. The Department of Tourist arrivals from Malaysia Canada are truly a Tourism reported that during this period, (39,515) and Singapore (57,332) increased significant and positive the months of January (293,803), March by 8 percent and 6 percent, respectively. force for development. (287,632) and July (285,243) registered the Arrivals from Vietnam continued to show highest visitor volume, surpassing previous substantial growth as volume increased by Four million-strong in the records in the last three years and establish- 39 percent. U.S. now and half a ing a new ceiling on visitor arrivals. The European markets outpaced the million-strong in Canada, Korea remains the top source market growth rates registered by other source mar- you are an important with a share of 20 percent and a volume of kets from January to July 2008. partner of Government in 380,619 visitors. The USA followed with a Arrivals from the Russian Federation ensuring that the market share of 19 percent or 366,662 tour- grew by a hefty 35 percent, France by 26 Philippines remains firmly ists. Japan ranked third with 216,114 arri- percent, Spain by 22 percent, and the on the path of progress. vals, reflecting 11 percent market share. United Kingdom by 18 percent. Visitor count from China remained On the other hand, the Scandinavian Your remittance, makes robust as arrivals went up by 18 percent to market comprised of Denmark, Finland, up the bulk of the record- 102,653. Norway and Sweden recorded a 16 percent setting 16 billion dollars The direct flight between Shanghai hike in tourist arrivals. that we received in remittances in 2007, and and Cebu initiated by the DOT during the The number of tourists from Australia therefore you have month has resulted in a 267 percent jump in went up by 12 percent to 67,436 for a mar- helped fuel the growth of visitors directly arriving in Mactan-Cebu ket share of 3.5 percent. the Philippine economy. International Airport. Canadian visitors meanwhile in- Taiwan, a turn-around market, posted creased by 18 percent to 60,667 during the And now you might have 13 percent growth for a tourist volume of period in review. noticed our Philippine 72,946. This has greatly expanded Taiwan's Stock Exchange is courting your Amb. Gaa leads . . . f r o m p . 1 investments as well. You are a crucial part of Team project. said. Philippines. We The tour was highlighted by a cour- The participants also enjoyed out-of- encourage you to tesy call on President Gloria Macapagal- town day tour packages chosen from five continue championing Arroyo and a luncheon held at the Mala- options presented by the tour organizers -- Philippine initiatives cañang Palace, as well as a special tour of Corregidor, Villa Escudero, Pagsanjan, Taal aimed at lasting peace the Malacañang Museum. and Tagaytay Heritage Tour, and golf at the and development. A wreath-laying ceremony at Rizal Tagaytay Midlands. Park was also held in honor of the country's Now on its fourth year, this tour is a President Arroyo national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, and dinners highly economically-sound, well-planned, in her address to the were hosted by the Department of Tourism well-organized and fun-filled way for all participants of the 4th at the Manila Ocean Park and Hyatt Hotel who desire to visit the Philippines. Ambassadors, Consuls and Casino. “Organizing this tour takes a lot of General and Tourism Ambassador Gaa said that the recent effort on the part of our interagency team. Directors’ Tour 14 July 2008 increase in the cost of travel did not deter But seeing the many satisfied and happy the participants. “We were able to come up faces of our participants as they rediscover with a reasonable package which contained the Philippines makes it all worth while,” many meaningful events,” Ambassador Gaa Ambassador Gaa explained.

Among the places visited by the ACGTD Tour this year was the historic island of Corregidor. Located at the entrance of the Manila Bay, it served as a focal point for the naval defenses of the capital city of Manila. During World War II, Corregidor was the site of several battles and its fall to Japanese forces was instrumental in the subsequent capture of the Philippines. Currently, it is an important historic and tourist site and is under the jurisdiction and managed by Cavite City. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 9

4th Ambassadors, Consuls General and Tourism Directors’ Tour, July 2008

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(1) Ambassador Willy Gaa, the Consuls General and the Tourism Directors with the President and Cabinet members. (2) The Washington DC Group led by Consul General Domingo Nolasco with the President. (3) The Guam Group led by Consul General Bayani Mercado. (4) The President addressing the participants to the ACGTD Tour. (5) The Guam Group at the Rizal Monument. (6) The Los Angeles Group led by Consul General Mary Jo Aragon. (7) The Chicago Group on the Taal/Tagaytay Heritage Tour. (8)The New York Group led by Consul General Cecilia Rebong at the Rizal Monument. (9) The Chicago Group led by Consul General Blesila Cabrera with the President. Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 10

Statements in Congress by Key Legislators Major Boost to Quest for Justice for Filipino WWII Veterans - Gaa 4 August 2008 – Ambassador Willy C. “we can finally bring about justice for Gaa today said that the recent statements these people who did so much for our in support of Filipino World War II veter- country and for the world.” ans which were delivered on the Floor of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) then spoke the House of Representatives provide a from the Floor and said “ . . . I wanted to We will continue to major boost to efforts to pass a law recog- come to the floor to associate myself with honor our promises nizing their military service and giving the remarks of our distinguished chairman, to all veterans, them benefits. Bob Filner, who has worked relentlessly, including the Filipino “These statements, coming from the as we all know, persistently, on this im- veterans, especially Speaker of the House herself and key leg- portant issue.” with regards to islators are a major boost to our search for Representative Mazie Hirono (D-HI) justice for our veterans,” Ambassador Gaa also took to the Floor and in support of citizenship and said. “On behalf of the Philippine Govern- Filipino World War II veterans said “They family reunification. ment, I would like to thank them for their fought shoulder to shoulder with Ameri- words of support and their desire to recog- can servicemen; they sacrificed for the 2008 Democratic nize the service of our veterans and to pro- same cause. We made a promise to pro- National Platform vide them with appropriate benefits,” he vide full veterans’ benefits to those who added. served with our troops . . . As Filipino During the debate on the Floor of the veterans are entering the sunset years of House of Representatives on 31 July 2008 their lives, Congress is running out of time on Military Construction and Veterans to fulfill our obligations to them.” Affairs Appropriations Act of 2009, Rep- Commenting on the statements of sup- resentative Bob Filner (D-CA), Chairman port made by some of the U.S. legislators of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee in at the debate, Ambassador Gaa said, “It is pushing for benefits for Filipino WWII heartening to note that there is continued veterans said “We promised those veterans support in the U.S. Congress for the plight (it is my hope that full benefits. We have taken them away. of our brave veterans and their long strug- Congress will) pass We have to go and give them back. That gle to attain justice. It is relevant to men- appropriate legislation that will was 62 years ago and that travesty still tion that those legislators who spoke on finally allow Filipino burns . . .” behalf of the Filipino WWII veterans em- veterans to step out Representative Mike Honda (D-CA), phasized the need to redress the injustice from under the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific perpetrated upon them by the passage of shadows of American Caucus, on his part said “I rise the Rescission Act of 1946 and that it is a America’s Greatest today to strongly urge my colleagues to matter of honor and a sense of justice that Generation and support the Filipino veterans. . . Let’s do should compel members of the U.S. Con- allow them to stand the right thing and give the Filipino veter- gress to correct this grave mistake.” proudly beside ans their due.” Ambassador Gaa expressed the hope them, as they did Representative Chet Edwards (D-TX), that “they pass appropriate legislation that when they faced the same enemy and Chair of the Military Construction and will finally allow Filipino veterans to step sacrificed for the Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcom- out from under the shadows of America’s same cause. mittee then narrated how grateful he was Greatest Generation and allow them to to Filipino veterans, saying “Had it not stand proudly beside them, as they did Ambassador Gaa been for the courage of Filipino veterans, when they faced the same enemy and sac- my father (a WWII naval aviator) might rificed for the same cause.” have been killed, because instead of the Ambassador Gaa also said that with war ending before he deployed, had it not only one month left for legislation “I call been for their heroism in the Pacific, my on the Filipino community in the United father might have been deployed, and like States to continue to lobby their respective so many other Americans in that war, he members of Congress to support legisla- might have ended up giving his life to the tion in the House that would adequately country.” He then committed to work on a and equitably address the concerns of the bipartisan basis to appropriate the funds so Filipino WWII Veterans.” Volume 3, Issue 4 Jul-Aug 2008 Page 11

Statements from the House Floor in Support of Filipino WW II Veterans, 31 July 2008

We have a group of veterans who were drafted into the Army in 1941, all the Filipinos who were in the Filipino army and various units and various irregular areas defending that territory. That was a territory of ours. And we drafted all the soldiers into our Army with the promise that they would have benefits later. Those Filipino soldiers, over a quarter million of them, held up the Japanese advance for weeks and weeks and weeks beyond their scheduled advance. It allowed us back home to prepare better and for MacArthur to return. And though the Japanese overran the Philip- pines in the terrible battles of Corregidor and the famous death march of Bataan, the surviving soldiers were able to harass the Japanese through guerilla work . . . . In fact, it was the Filipinos, bravely alongside their American coun- terparts, who helped to win the war in the Pacific. Although President Truman signed the legislation which embodied that in law, he said, We must repair this important travesty. We promised those veterans full benefits. We have taken them away. We have to go and give them back. That was 62 years ago, Mr. Chairman, and that travesty still burns in the hearts of the Filipinos who are alive, and their family members. This is a moral necessity for America to close the chapter on World War II. This is a moral necessity for this Congress to make up for a mistake that was made 62 years ago. Rep. Bob Filner, (D-CA), Chair, Veterans’ Affairs Committee

I rise today to strongly urge my colleagues to support the Filipino veterans. These brave men fought alongside Ameri- can soldiers under our flag throughout the Pacific Theater in World War II, and the United States made a promise to grant them veterans benefits as they were drafted into the U.S. service under President Roosevelt. Nearly 1 million Filipinos who were conscripted into service by President Roosevelt were killed in action in defense of our country, and many of them died as they protected the POWs, who were our soldiers, against the Japanese brutality during the Bataan Death March. Today there are only 18,000 World War II Filipino veterans living, most of them in their eight- ies, and they are dying every day, and this cannot wait. America’s greatness is in her strength of character. When Congress makes a mistake, we have the courage to correct that mistake. We have the guts to apologize and make it right. Let’s do the right thing and give the Filipino veterans their due. Let’s have a vote on this when we come back from recess this September. Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA)

My father was a naval aviator in World War II. My father passed away four months ago. Had it not been for the courage of Filipino veterans, my father might have been killed, because instead of the war ending before he was deployed, had it not been for their heroism in the Pacific, my father might have been deployed, and like so many other Ameri- cans in that war, he might have ended up giving his life to the country. I have been deeply moved by Mr. HONDA and Mr. FILNER’s passionate dedication on behalf of these great citizens of the world who sacrificed, many of them giving the ultimate sacrifice, on behalf of our country and our victory in World War II. My commitment to Mr. FILNER and Mr. HONDA is to work as the chairman of the appropriations subcommittee with the chairman of the authorizing committee and on a bipartisan basis to find appropriations available so that if we can get an authorization for those appropriations, we can finally bring about justice for these people who did so much for our country and for the world. Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX), Chair, Appropriation Sub-Committee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs

I thank the chairman of the Veterans’ Committee for bringing up this important issue of our Filipino vets. For years we have been pleading our case. Mr. OBEY has listened patiently and tried to find a way for us to meet the needs of these people who served our country so well, who helped achieve the victory. Promises were made; promises were not kept. And I know it is not possible to do something this evening, but I wanted to come to the floor to associate myself with the remarks of our distinguished chairman, BOB FILNER, who has worked relentlessly, as we all know, persistently, on this important issue. We recently had a visit from the President of the Philippines, where she was very inter- ested in the progress of this issue. So, again, I associate myself with Mr. FILNER’s impassioned plea on this subject. Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)

Filipino veterans are those that honorably answered the call of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and served alongside our armed forces during World War II. They fought shoulder to shoulder with American servicemen; they sacrificed for the same just cause. We made a promise to provide full veterans’ benefits to those who served with our troops. And while we have made appreciable progress toward fulfilling that promise, we have not yet achieved the full equity that the Filipino veterans deserve. Today, out of the 250,000 Filipino World War II veterans, only 18,000 are left. Of that number some 2,000 reside in my home state of Hawaii. As Filipino veterans are entering the sunset years of their lives, Congress is running out of time to fulfill our obligations to them. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) The Philippine Embassy in Washington DC assists the Department of Foreign Affairs in its work of formulating, planning, organizing, and evaluating policies and actions on RP-US relations and relations with accredited organizations. The goals and objectives of the Embassy and its Consulates are:

We are on the web  Promoting friendly relations between the United States and the www.philippineembassy-usa.org Philippines;  Protecting Philippine interests; To receive Philippine Government updates  Assisting Filipino nationals abroad, including protecting and please email promoting the rights and welfare of Filipino WWII veterans;  Promoting expanding Philippine exports; [email protected]  Promoting tourism and investments to the Philippines;  Pursuing cooperation in science and technology;  Promoting human rights; and  Pursuing international peace, security and development.

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY CAUCUS CHRONICLE Editor Carlos Sorreta 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW Contributors Editorial Assistants Ariel Penaranda Lyrie Fulgencio Phone: (202) 467 9300/9363 Delfin Lorenzana Remedios Landicho Fax: (202) 467 9417 Gines Gallaga Ging Omaga Diaz E-mail: Angelito Nayan Jose Ledonio [email protected] Percival Abu Erik Lorenzana Tina Santos

PHILIPPINE C a u c u s EMBASSY C h r o n i c l e Volume 3, Issue 4 US-Philippines Friendship Caucus Newsletter July-August 2008

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