RP bilateral talks with Indonesia reset over tsunami

HANOI, Vietnam – Philippines bilateral talks with Indonesia originally set today have been postponed following the tsunami and earthquake that hit the predominantly Muslim nation.

It was to have been President Aquino’s first schedule in the 17th ASEAN Summit here.

“I understand he (Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono) is going back to Indonesia. We commiserate and condole with them,” he told newsmen, adding he was saddened by the successive tragedies there where more than a hundred died.

Both Mr. Aquino and the Indonesian leader are staying at the Grand Plaza Hotel, and both were on state visit upon the invitation of President Nguyen Minh Triet, although the Philippine contingent arrived a day before Indonesia’s.

He could not categorically make any announcement yet whether the bilateral talks would be cancelled altogether, or would be reset on Saturday, or during the convention of other related ASEAN summits.

At the same time, the President offered “any assistance” the Philippine government could extend for the search and rescue of the victims. He said he has already instructed the Office of Civil Defense to help in the search and rescue operations.

“At this time of grief for the Indonesian people, the Filipino people join me in expressing sorrow and concern for our brothers and sisters devastated by the recent earthquake and tsunami,” Aquino said in a statement.

“We are prepared to assist in any way we can. We are also confident that Indonesia will meet this challenge with the resolve, compassion, and unity that has marked their response to the national calamities in the past,” he said.

“Our thoughts are with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as he returns to be with and lead his people in the work of rescue, recovery and rebuilding,” he said.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, there are some 100,000 Filipinos in Indonesia. So far, however, no Filipino has been reported to be among the casualties in the twin disasters that hit the Asian country.

DFA Undersecretary for migrant workers affairs Esteban Conejos Jr. said the DFA and the Department of Labor and Employment are prepared to accommodate Filipinos in Indonesia who want to return home after the tragedy.