Philippines Embassy offers assistance to Malaysia

The Philippine embassy, here, today offered its assistance to the Malaysian authorities in finding a peaceful solution to the incident in Lahad Datu, Sabah. This was conveyed by Philippine ambassador to Malaysia J. Eduardo Malaya and Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary (Deputy Minister) Jose S. Brillantes during a brief meeting with Malaysia's Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar in Lahad Datu today. Malaya in a statement today said they were in Lahad Datu on a consular, humanitarian mission. "We are here to help," he said. Malaya said they wished to be of help to the local authorities in finding a peaceful solution and avoiding further bloodshed, in line with the pronouncement of both President Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. "We would also like to extend consular assistance to the wounded and other affected nationals. It is important we work together closely in finding a peaceful closure to the situation. Each life is precious. Let us find ways to avoid further loss of lives," said Brillantes. Brillantes was dispatched from Manila to Malaysia on Feb 25 to assist the embassy in handling the situation. In a separate statement today, the embassy called on members of the Filipino-Malaysian community in the eastern coast of Sabah to remain calm and abide by the guidelines issued by the local authorities. "We feel and understand the anxieties felt by many of you at these difficult times. "The embassy will work with the concerned authorities to ensure your safety and wellbeing. This is not the time to undertake any action that might be misunderstood by some parties," said the embassy.