The
Ambassador remarked that the cooperation between Israel and Cebu has been
enhanced due to the Israeli government initiatives and pave the way for
long-term projects between the two.
The
Israeli Defense Forces have been in Cebu Province since last week and are
continuing to expand their operation from Bogo City to other nearby areas and
islands. In addition, the IDF personnel have been participating in civil
engineering and construction efforts.
In
Gibitngil Island, IDF personnel have also installed a water cleaning system to
ensure safe drinking water for the residents of the island.
In
a ceremony that took place with the Governor of Cebu, the State of Israel
handed over half a million dollars' worth of medicine for the use of population
affected by the typhoon.
This
donation is additional to the medical mission that is already in Bogo City and
is valued at more than $5 million.
The
field hospital was visited by the Vice President of the Philippines, His
Excellency Jejomar C. Binay, Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III and Bogo City
Mayor Celestino Martinez Jr. who
commended and thanked the IDF for their presence and expertise.
This
week, the IDF will be further expanding operations in other areas of northern
Cebu in order to assist as many Filipinos as they can. The IDF termed their
operations here “Operation Islands of Hope” – an apt label for their service in
the Philippines.