[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 167 (Thursday, November 21, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H7314]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    U.S. RESPONSE TO TYPHOON HAIYAN

  (Mr. SWALWELL of California asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SWALWELL of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my 
condolences to the people of the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan, 
which hit November 8, 2013.
  I am proud to represent a vibrant Filipino community in the East Bay, 
and I have heard from many constituents who are concerned about loved 
ones overseas. Particularly this weekend, I heard from hundreds at St. 
Anne's Catholic Church in Union City.
  The U.S. Government acted swiftly, sending monetary aid, humanitarian 
workers, and military personnel. Unfortunately, some people in the most 
remote areas are still struggling for basic human needs like food, 
water, and medical supplies. That is why Representative Jackie Speier 
and I are circulating a letter to Secretary of Defense Hagel and USAID 
Administrator Shah, which we plan to send tomorrow supporting the use 
of airdrops of food and supplies to inaccessible areas.
  In an ideal world, aid workers on the ground would distribute 
supplies to those in need, but time is of the essence. People are 
hungry, need medical supplies, and are thirsty right now.
  I am committed to making sure the U.S. is doing everything it can to 
help the Filipino people as they begin to rebuild their lives following 
this horrific storm.

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