Phl thanks Malaysia for aid, support

MANILA, Philippines - It is time to thank Malaysian leaders and their people for being among the country’s strongest allies in the region and for all their assistance to the country, President Aquino said yesterday as he left for Kuala Lumpur on a two-day state visit.

In his departure statement, Aquino said he would convey the country’s heartfelt gratitude for Malaysia’s help when Super Typhoon Yolanda hit the Visayas. Malaysia donated $1 million and sent 10 C-130 cargo planes along with medical and humanitarian assistance teams.

The President said the Malaysian humanitarian team also distributed blankets, among other necessities, for the survivors.

Aquino also cited Malaysia’s role as facilitator in the negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. He said the signing of a comprehensive peace agreement is imminent.

He said Malaysia is a staunch ally of the Philippines in the region, supporting Manila’s stand for a rules-based approach in resolving territorial disputes.

“Good communication and trust are the reasons why Malaysia is one of the country’s staunchest allies in the region. They are with us in standing up for a peaceful and reasonable resolution of territorial issues based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They are cognizant of the fact that long term stability can only be achieved if we are all anchored on the foundations of dignity, respect and equal respect for the law,” Aquino said.

The President said he would take part in the inauguration of the first Petron gas station in Kuala Lumpur, which is part of a venture involving $1.2 billion in investments.

“The visit will be an opportunity to tell traders in Malaysia of the progress in the Philippines. I will meet with officials of Maybank, AirAsia and Genting to discuss their plans to expand operations here,” he said.

The President said he would meet with the Filipino community in Malaysia to ensure their needs are addressed and their rights protected.

P9 M for Malaysia trip

Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said the government allocated some P9 million for Aquino’s first state visit to Malaysia.

Aquino left on a chartered flight, accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma

jr., Presidential Management Staff chief Julia Abad, Mindanao Development Authority chair Luwalhati Antonino and presidential protocol chief Celia Anna Feria. – With Delon Porcalla