SECRETARY-GENERAL DISTRESSED BY LANDSLIDE, FLOOD DAMAGE

IN PHILIPPINES, SAYS UN STANDS READY TO HELP

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General was distressed to learn of the casualties and damage caused by landslides and floods in the central part of the Philippines.  He conveys his condolences and deepest sympathy to the Government of the Philippines and to the victims of the disaster.

The United Nations stands ready to assist those affected by the tragedy.  As part of these efforts, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is providing an emergency grant of 50,000 for local purchase and transportation of relief items and is working to mobilize international donor response.

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