[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 157 (Friday, December 7, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1890]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            EXPRESSION OF CONDOLENCES TO THE FILIPINO PEOPLE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDWARD R. ROYCE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 7, 2012

  Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, on December 5, 2012, Typhoon Pablo 
(international name Bopha) swept across the southern Philippines, 
devastating Mindanao and parts of the Visayas. 450 Filipinos are dead 
and more than 750 injured or missing. Over 10,000 homes were destroyed 
and over 300,000 people have been displaced and are seeking shelter at 
evacuation centers.
  I would like to express my deepest condolences to the harmed 
individuals and families in the Philippines. Given the close 
relationship the United States has with the Philippines, it is 
essential that we assist the Filipino people as best as we can in their 
time of desperate need.
  I commend the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. The search for the 
missing becomes more critical as time progresses and focusing on 
rebuilding will be the next vital step in helping the Filipino people 
restore their communities.
  Again, I express my sincerest condolences to the Filipino people. As 
the holiday season approaches, we extend our support as the nation 
heals from this devastation.

                          ____________________