The Philippine Government will send medical team with at least 21 members to help in aiding victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

Acting Secretary of Health Esperanza Cabral said on Saturday that the team might fly on Monday after all the diplomatic amenities have been done.

The medical mission is composed of 21 trauma and orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, sanitary engineers and public health workers.

“They are trying the best and fastest way to get there. The team is expected to perform medical operations, stress debriefing, and counseling, among other helping countries,” Cabral said.

President Gloria-Macapagal-Arroyo’s Message

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she has sent a personal message to President Rene Garcia Preval extending her condolences and pledging help and support for the impoverished Caribbean country.

“The Filipino nation joins the international community in expressing sympathy and support to the Republic of Haiti over the recent earthquake that has claimed the lives of yet undetermined number of people, injured many more, and caused widespread destruction of property,” PGMA said in her statement.

Mrs. Arroyo also stated the efforts of the Government to send help to Haiti and said they are doing their best to ensure the safety of all the peacekeepers.

“Search-and-rescue efforts, however, continue round-the-clock, and will not stop until all are accounted for. We are coordinating closely with the United Nations to ensure the rescue and safety of all the peacekeepers,” Ms Arroyo said.

New peacekeeping contingent to go to Haiti

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said a new peacekeeping contingent was formed go to Haiti as an added help.

“The team is assembled and ready to go. We have always sent medical teams to other countries when disaster strikes there. The team will go to Haiti next week,” Press Secretary said.

Other Filipinos in Haiti is already helping in search and relief operations.

“The medical contingent and the new peacekeeping contingent will go to Haiti together,” Remonde added.

Meanwhile, the Malacañang official said that the Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to coordinate for the accountability of the Filipinos in Haiti.

“The consular officials have instructions from the President and the Department of Foreign Affairs. They will look after the welfare of our Filipinos there, particularly those who are undocumented.” Palace official stated.

Philippine preparedness for earthquake

Remonde said that the Government with its agency,National Disaster Coordinating Council, is prepared for any earthquake of the same magnitude taht might devastate the country.

“Heaven forbid that a similar tragedy should befall the Philippines. However, if it does, our National Disaster Coordinating Council is at a level of preparedness to meet that contingency,” he said.

- Jenny Villareal