THE Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (Teco) recently donated 300,000 medical masks to the Philippine government to be utilized for protecting frontline medical and health workers combating the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
The handover was held at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon the arrival of the items on April 15. Representatives from the Manila Economic and Cultural Office and the Department of Health received the masks.
Taiwan has already conducted two waves of medical assistance operations, as it has donated 16 million medical masks and other medical supplies to the United States, Europe, diplomatic allies, countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, partner-countries under Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy, and other friendly nations severely affected by the pandemic.
“As we are close neighbors, Taiwan always stands together with our friends in the Philippines whenever there is a need,” Teco Representative Peiyung Hsu said. “The donation…demonstrates true friendship between the two countries.”
With regard to Taiwan’s robust experience and contributions, Teco commented: “It is absurd that [we are] barred from sharing experiences and critical information that could be used to better coordinate international efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19.”
“Taiwan once again calls on the [World Health Organization] to cast aside political considerations, abide by [its] charter’s call to work for the highest attainable standard of human health, and bring Taiwan fully into its meetings, mechanisms, and activities, particularly those concerning Covid-19,” Teco said in a press statement.
In the future, Teco said Taiwan will continue working with the Philippines to enhance the welfare of their two people. “During the time of isolation, we choose solidarity,” it declared.