KIKO ON THE POSSIBLE REMOVAL OF
USAID PROPOSED BY AMNESTY INT'L AS SANCTIONS TO RP

"The Philippine government, as part of the diplomatic community, is answerable to our international partners as to the worsening state of human rights in the country. However, we urge the Amnesty International to view the possible removal of aid from the perspective of our typhoon-ravaged countrymen in Mindanao. It is critical that support to Mindanao and the Bicol Region not be removed abruptly because this humanitarian aid is crucial to the survival of Mindanaoans and those who still suffer from the effects of typhoon.

"Many remain homeless and hungry, and they should not be made o suffer for the shortcomings of people in government."