[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 73 (Tuesday, June 9, 1998)]
[House]
[Pages H4299-H4300]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  REGARDING RELATIONS BETWEEN THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE 
                       PEOPLE OF THE PHILIPPINES

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Millender-McDonald) is recognized for 
5 minutes.
  Ms. MILLENDER-McDONALD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H. 
Res. 404 regarding the relations between the people of the United 
States and the people of the Philippines. In light of the Philippines 
100th anniversary of its independence from Spain, this measure 
appropriately acknowledges the Philippines' efforts to improve its 
democracy and human rights, rule of law and expansion of the free 
market. Such accomplishments are reflective of a nation striving to 
fulfill its potential as a future leader in international diplomacy.
  As a nation on the rise, the Philippines has made significant strides 
to uphold and promote democratic ideals. From open elections to 
establishing diplomatic relationships with free world nations, the 
Philippines has accepted its role as an emerging power in the 
international forum. This role has been further established by its 
efforts to promote human rights both domestically and abroad.
  In the annals of U.S. military history, the Philippine people have 
made incredible contributions to the preservation of world democracy. 
Fighting side by side with American troops in World War II, the Korean 
War and Vietnam, Filipino troops demonstrated both valor and fighting 
prowess in all these engagements. In the constant face of adversity, 
these men and women endured and prevailed. The accomplishments of 
Philippine Americans have not only been noticed in military endeavors, 
but have also been noteworthy for their contributions to the United 
States.
  As U.S. citizens, Filipino Americans have made great contributions to 
the growth and prosperity of our Nation. In the 37th Congressional 
District of California, the Filipino American community has contributed 
immeasurable leadership and vision. As a result of these contributions, 
the Filipino American community deserves the respect

[[Page H4300]]

and gratitude of this country's government.
  Unfortunately, some members of the Filipino community have not been 
accorded such respect. Amerasian children, children of mixed heritage 
borne by Philippine mothers and U.S. servicemen, have been denied the 
right to immigrate to the U.S.
  In the spirit of today's House resolution, I would ask my colleagues 
from both sides of the aisle to join me in sponsoring my bill, H.R. 
2540, the Amerasian Reunification Act. This legislation would help 
reunite families and children born in the Philippines. Your support of 
this legislation will send a resounding message to the citizens of the 
Philippines that Americans are willing to stand behind their democratic 
beliefs in assisting those less fortunate in need.

                          ____________________