The government of Taiwan has donated P1 million to Batanes to help the province recover from severe damages caused by Typhoon “Ferdie” (international name Meranti).
Citing his country’s proximity to the Philippines’ northernmost province, Dr. Gary Song-Huann Lin, Taiwanese Representative to the PH, said the donation would help rebuild houses and infrastructure damaged by the typhoon.
Taiwan’s assistance to Batanes is part of its “New Southbound Policy” where it sees the Philippines’ “significant importance” as the gateway to Asean countries, Lin said.
“Batanes is not alone. Taiwan is a genuine friend and close neighbor of the Philippines. A friend in need is a friend indeed,” the Taiwanese official said in his speech during the donation ceremony.
“Taiwan wishes the best for the victims and hopes that they can return to their normal lives soon, and that the reconstruction may be carried out smoothly to regain its charm in no time.”
Taiwan also donated instant noodles to Batanes through Gov. Marilou Cayco and other provincial officials.
Lin noted an urban legend in Taiwan that says one could hear a rooster crow in the morning in Batanes from the southernmost tip of Taiwan. In addition, people in Batanes can even listen to radio programs from Taiwan.
“For a Taiwanese, it truly feels like being home when staying in Batanes,” he said, adding that Taiwan’s ships dock in Batanes to resupply during the fishing season from March to June.
“This shows that Taiwanese and Filipinos enjoy longstanding friendship. Therefore, when Batanes needs assistance due to the wrecking of typhoon, Taiwan of course will extend a helping hand through caring disaster relief efforts without any hesitation,” Lin said.