Taiwan donates 2,000 MT of rice for PH relief efforts

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 4) — The Taiwan government on Thursday turned over the first batch of its rice donation to the Philippines as part of its efforts to strengthen food security and agricultural cooperation.

The turn-over ceremony for the first 1,000 metric tons of rice was led by Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) Chairman Silvestre Bello and Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) Representative Wallace Chow.

The donated rice will be added to the stocks of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for distribution during disaster relief efforts.

«We all need to work together to address challenges, so as to achieve food security for the benefits of our peoples,» said Chow.

The official said the next batch or the remaining 1,000 metric tons of rice will arrive when the need arises or upon the request of the Philippine government.

Taiwan also vowed that Manila and Taipei should collaborate more as neighbors in the region.

«Taiwan is committed to be a reliable and trustworthy partner for the Philippines,» Chow declared.

Bello, meanwhile, welcomed Taiwan's rice donation.

«This gesture coming from Taiwan is an indication of the strong cultural and friendly ties between Taiwan and the Philippines,» said Bello.