[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 153 (Wednesday, October 21, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2589]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 EXPRESSING SYMPATHY FOR THE CITIZENS OF THE PHILIPPINES DEALING WITH 
                TROPICAL STORM KETSANA AND TYPHOON PARMA

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. DINA TITUS

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 14, 2009

  Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 800. I am 
proud to be a cosponsor of this important resolution which expresses 
sympathy to the people and communities in the Philippines who are still 
struggling to recover from Tropical Storm Ketsana and Typhoon Parma. I 
thank my friend, Congresswoman Speier, for introducing this 
legislation.
  I am honored to represent a large and vibrant Filipino community in 
Southern Nevada, many of whom have families that were impacted by these 
natural disasters. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Filipino 
community of Southern Nevada during this time of turmoil.
  Today, I am privileged to join with members of the House in 
solidarity with the people of the Philippines as they begin the process 
of rebuilding their communities after these horrific events. During 
these two disasters, Southeast Asia was the victim of some of the worst 
flooding the world has ever seen. In some areas, 60 percent of the land 
was completely submerged and entire villages were washed away. As the 
rebuilding begins, we stand in strength and solidarity with the 
Philippines.
  Unfortunately, these storms have also claimed the lives of hundreds 
of Filipinos. I send my most sincere condolences to their families. The 
full effect that these storms have had will not be known for some time, 
and our prayers for the safety of those affected will continue.
  I know that the residents of the Philippines are strong willed and 
resilient, and will quickly rebuild their communities. I encourage our 
Department of State to reach out to the Philippine government and offer 
assistance as needed. I am proud that the United States Armed Forces 
have been assisting in the recovery and thank them for their vital 
efforts. It is important that our two nations stand together in efforts 
to rebuild and stabilize the effected regions.
  Today, the United States House of Representatives stands united with 
the Filipino Community in the Philippines and around the world. I urge 
adoption of this resolution.

                          ____________________