Change I believe in

Obama's Statement on Philippine Independence Day

Chicago, IL -- Senator Obama released the following statement today on Philippine Independence Day. "After hundreds of years of struggle for independence, the Filipino people declared their independence from Spain on June 12, 1898, and the first Philippine republic was born.

“The Philippines has been a staunch partner of the United States through the Cold War and the war against terrorism. In part because of our shared history, we cannot ignore the fact that the Philippines continues to confront many difficult challenges, including persistent poverty, natural disasters, and political division. But as a nation rich in natural and human resources, with a proud legacy as the first democracy in Asia, the Philippines also holds great opportunities and hope for the future. An ongoing challenge of the 21st century will be to ensure that these opportunities to make a better life are open to all. I look forward to working with the Filipino people and their government, as part of the global community, to combat poverty and generate wealth, build healthy and educated communities, and change the odds for generations to come.”

"Particularly important to note on this day is the continuing struggle of Filipino World War II veterans to receive the veterans benefits they rightfully deserve. During World War II, Filipino and American troops fought bravely together under some of the most trying conditions suffered by any forces during that conflict, forging a historic bond between our two nations and their people. Filipinos displayed great courage alongside American soldiers at Bataan and Corregidor, only to be denied their just benefits by our government. The Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 would honor the service of all U.S. veterans, including these Filipino World War II heroes. The Senate passed this bill last April. I urge my colleagues in Congress to take note of this day to honor the heroic service of Filipino World War II veterans by finally turning this important legislation into law. (The rest here.)

O davah! Galeng-galeng naman ni Obama...making sipsip already to all the Pinoys in the U.S. in preparation for the November elections! E si Sen. McCain? Deadma sa RP Independence Day...and to think he is a WWII veteran who has visited the Philippines! Tsk, tsk, tsk...