GOVPH

08 February 2014 - A turn-over of funds raised during the Charity Concert to benefit the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Philippines was held at the Philippine Embassy on January 15.

The concert organizers led by Mr. Somsanouk Mixay, Vice President of Lao Journalists’ Association, Mrs. Chanthachone Vongsay, Vice President of Lao Businesswomen’s Association, Mr. Houmphanh Rattanavong, President of Lao Biodiversity Association, Mr. Hansana Sisane, President of Lao Handicraft Association, Mr. Bounmany Phommasanh, President of Lao AllStars Football Association, Mr. Bounlap Douangphoumy, Deputy Director General of Lao National TV and Ms. Phannaly Thephavongsa, Head of Vulnerable Youth Development Association handed over a symbolic cheque for Fifty-five Million Kip                       (Kip 55,000,000.00 - equivalent to some US$6,875.00).

Philippine Ambassador to Laos Maria Lumen B. Isleta expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Lao Government, business sector, media, civil society and private individuals who had taken time to organize activities for typhoon Haiyan survivors.  She noted that the meaningful gesture and expression of sympathy and solidarity with the typhoon victims were deeply appreciated.

The four-hour Charity Concert was held last November 30 at the National Cultural Hall in Vientiane, Laos and featured more than 30 Lao celebrities/singers.  During the concert, a number of Lao business companies and associations presented specimen checks representing their respective cash donations to Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Mr. Xayakane Sisouvong.  The viewing public were also able to call in or send their donations via SMS during the concert which was telecast live.

The concert was sponsored by the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lao Journalists’ Association, Lao Biodiversity Association, Community Development and Environment Association, Lao Handicraft Association, Lao All Star Club, Lao National Television, Lao Star Television, MV Lao, TV Lao, and local recording companies. END