True to its commitment to be a dependable friend and ally, Taiwan turned over 500 metric tons of rice to the Philippines in solidarity with Typhoon-Affected Communities.
Ambassador Wallace Chow, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, on behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), turned over 500 metric tons of rice to the Philippine government on October 29, 2024, as a gesture of compassion and solidarity for communities affected by recent natural calamities. As close neighbors, the turnover ceremony highlighted Taiwan’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Philippines during these challenging times.
In his remarks, Ambassador Chow noted that Taiwan President Lai Ching-te recently underscored on social media the importance of neighborly support during times of need. “We are closely monitoring the situation & Taiwan stands ready to offer assistance. Taiwan reaffirms that commitment, standing with the Philippines as you endure these challenging times,” Chow said.
The donation comes after the Luzon area successively experienced two significant weather events this year, with Typhoon Gaemi last July and Severe Tropical Storm Kristine a few days ago. Typhoon Gaemi alone forced the evacuation of over half a million people across Metro Manila and other regions, while Kristine has affected nearly 2.3 million Filipinos, displacing more than 254,000 people.
In addition to rice donation for Filipino people in needs, Taiwan is also preparing to deepen its cooperative efforts to bolster the nation’s food security. Ambassador Chow announced an upcoming partnership with the Philippine Department of Agriculture and the Taiwan Technical Mission to enhance rice production in the provinces of Isabela and Cagayan. By introducing Taiwan’s advanced agricultural technology, this initiative aims to help the Philippines achieve greater self-sufficiency in rice production and ensure food accessibility during future calamities.
Reflecting on the resilience of the Filipino people, Ambassador Chow emphasized that resilience is stronger when shared. “When we come together, combining our efforts and resources, resilience becomes a powerful force capable of overcoming any obstacle,” he said. “Together, our shared resilience becomes a beacon of hope for a future that is safer, more secure, and full of possibility for all.”
The ceremony concluded with expressions of gratitude from Chairperson Cheloy Garafil of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and representatives from other government agencies in attendance.(