21 November 2013 – The Philippine Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon opened on November 13 and 15 a condolence book for the victims of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which struck the central Philippines on November 08 and caused the death of thousands and left massive destruction to property.  

Heartfelt messages of sympathy and condolences for the bereaved families, as well as prayers for the speedy recovery of those who survived, were received in person and in writing from the members of the diplomatic and consular corps, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), officials from the Lebanese government, as well as Lebanese businessmen and individuals.

Rev. Fr. Simon Faddoul, President of Caritas Lebanon, Engr. Kamal Sioufi, President of the Governing Board of Caritas Lebanon Migrant Centre (CLMC), and Ms. Najla Chahda, Director of the CLMC, personally called on Philippine Ambassador Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz at the Embassy to convey their sympathy and condolences for the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). 

CLMC is a non-government organization, which caters to the needs of migrants and refugees in Lebanon and has been a longstanding partner of the Embassy in extending assistance to Filipino nationals in Lebanon.

 The Embassy also conveyed the deep appreciation of the Philippine Government and the Filipino people to those who personally conveyed or sent their messages of support and concern for the victims of the super typhoon.  END