20 November 2013 - Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul made a presentation of the Royal Thai Government’s donation of THB 6,000,000.00 or USD200,000.00 for the victims of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in simple ceremonies held on November 19 at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Deputy Prime Minister personally presented a ceremonial check representing the cash donation to Philippine Ambassador Jocelyn Batoon-Garcia.  Ministry officials said the actual monetary donation will be turned over by the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila to one of the Philippine government agencies authorized to receive such type of assistance.

In brief remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Surapong said it is heartbreaking to see friends suffer a catastrophe of such magnitude.  He added that as a fellow member of the ASEAN family, “you can count on our support at all levels.”  He urged the Philippines “not to hesitate to call on us should you need further assistance in the rehabilitation efforts.” He also mentioned that the first batch of the Royal Thai Government’s in-kind donations has already been flown to the Philippines aboard a Royal Thai Air Force C-130  plane.

In response, Ambassador Batoon-Garcia thanked Deputy Prime Minister Surapong for the donation. She also thanked Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit and other members of the Royal Family, the Royal Thai Government headed by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, all Thai private companies and foundations, and the Thai people for their support to the typhoon victims.  She said that she is overwhelmed by the sympathy shown by the Thai people and the international community for the typhoon victims. END