Scott Meets with Philippines Ambassador Cuisia to Discuss Post-Typhoon Relief Efforts

WASHINGTON, DC – On Thursday, November 21, 2013, Congressman Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (VA-03), co-chair of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, co-hosted a briefing featuring the Philippines Ambassador to the United States, Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., on the ongoing relief efforts in the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan. The briefing was co-hosted by the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus. In addition to Ambassador Cuisia, Colonel Christopher C. Starling, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations for the United States Marine Corps, and Nancy Lindborg, USAID Assistant Administrator for the Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance, also provided their perspective on recovery operations. A bi-partisan group of fourteen Members of Congress and their staffs also attended the briefing.

"It's been two weeks since Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines, leaving thousands dead and millions in need of aid," said Rep. Scott. "It is extremely important that Members of Congress know how critical our nation's support can be during this time of need. The Philippines has long been a good friend of the United States and Congress must ensure that aid is effectively reaching all affected communities. I was pleased to hear from the Ambassador that aid is reaching those who need it most and that the response from both the United States and the international community has thus far been efficiently coordinated and very effective."

During the briefing, Ambassador Cuisia expressed his sincere thanks to the United States for our support and interest in the recovery efforts. He also reiterated the Philippines' government's promise to maintain transparency and accountability for all aid dollars received.

Colonel Christopher Starling discussed the robust role the Marine Corps and other armed services branches are playing in the recovery. Colonel Starling affirmed that the post-typhoon recovery mission was precisely the type of mission that our Marines are uniquely equipped and trained to handle. He also reported that Marines were on the ground in the Philippines conducting emergency response activities less than 48 hours after the storm hit and that nearly 1,500 tons of supplies had already been delivered to affected communities. Additionally, Nancy Lindborg elaborated on the complex humanitarian response efforts currently being executed by USAID, and reported proudly that the United States government was the first government to conduct overflight damage assessments. She also reported that the World Food Program has provided food aid to 2 million people in the Philippines.

"While the response is being carried out in a very effective way, there is no doubt that the recovery process will be a long one," continued Rep. Scott. "It will be important for Congress to remain engaged to ensure a speedy and effective recovery for our friends in the Philippines."

If you are interested in assisting with relief efforts please visit the USAID's Typhoon Haiyan Response website at: www.usaid.gov/haiyan.

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