His Excellency President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino
His Excellency Joaquin Otero
Ambassador of Argentina
Honorable Senator Edgardo J. Angara
The Philippine Senate
Honorable Secretary Enrique T. Ona
Department of Health
Honorable Representative Juan Edgardo M. Angara
Lone District of Aurora
Honorable Governor Bellaflor J. Angara-Castillo
Aurora Province
Honorable Mayor Arturo J. Angara
Municipality of Baler, Aurora Province
Honorable President Alfredo Pascual
University of the Philippines
Chief Representative Takahiro Sasaki
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines
Distinguished guests and officials
Ladies and gentlemen:
Magandang umaga po. Ikinagagalak kong makasama kayong lahat sa mahalagang okasyon na ito. (Good morning. It is my pleasure to attend this important inauguration ceremony.)
This is my first visit to this beautiful province. I am impressed. The stunning seascape, verdant mountains and clean, fresh air is breathtaking.
Certainly, it is a long journey from Manila to visit here but as Kathy Kay Benudiz said, “there is no distance too far between friends, for friendship gives wings to the heart.” Senator Angara is a true friend of Japan.
Indeed, we are happy to help Aurora particularly in the health sector, because uplifting health conditions improve “Human Security.” The Government of Japan believes in Human Security.
By eliminating concerns about health and livelihood of people and empowering individuals with education, we hope to eliminate radicalism and realize welfare for the whole community.
Madaig a ng kahinaan at pagpapalakas ng bawat indibidwal ay ang susi sa isang mas mahusay na hinaharap. (Overcoming vulnerability and strengthening of each individual is the key to a better future.) Indeed the project is in line with the Department of Health's “ Kalusugan Pangkalahatan ” program.
The Aurora Memorial Hospital will provide a solid foundation for your welfare. It is important to manage and operate it. We are happy that University of the Philippines is helping the hospital to work efficiently. Also, one JOCV Nurse is assigned to assist you. I have no doubt that the people of Aurora will maintain it, make it work efficiently and improve it.
Ang umaayaw ay hindi nagwawagi, ang nagwawagi ay hindi umaayaw. (A quitter never wins, a winner never quits.)
In closing, let me express my sincere wish that this hospital will be an everlasting symbol of our friendship and human security of Aurora.
Maraming salamat po. (Thank you.)
Embassy of Japan in the Philippines