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VPOTUS Remarks
After the Storm: A Benefit Concert for the Philippines

* Congratulations to the people of the Philippines as you commemorate the 116th anniversary of Philippine Independence.

* Ever since our people stood shoulder to shoulder to liberate the Philippines during World War II, the United States and Philippines have been strategic partners, treaty allies, and close friends.

* Our two nations enjoy strong security, economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties that are rooted in shared democratic values and rich historical bonds.

* The U.S.-Philippine alliance - the oldest treaty alliance the United States has in Asia - has upheld peace and security in the Asia-Pacific and around the world for more than 60 years.

* Last year, there was $24 billion in two-way trade between our countries, and U.S. trade and investment to the Philippines - one of the fastest growing economies in Asia - continues to grow.

* And our countries share extensive people-to-people ties. 350,000 Americans live in the Philippines, and more than 4 million people of Philippine descent reside in the United States and contribute to our country's economic growth and rich multicultural tapestry.

* I applaud the efforts of the U.S.-Philippines Society to build on the historical ties between our countries to further strengthen our wide-ranging bilateral relationship and the bonds between our peoples.

* It is particularly because of these close bonds that I and many Americans felt profound sorrow when we witnessed the destruction Typhoon Yolanda left in its wake last November.

* The United States responded rapidly with the full range of its resources to help a friend in need. The U.S. military and the U.S. Agency for International Development worked hand-in-hand with their Philippine counterparts to rescue victims and deliver aid to the areas devastated by Typhoon Yolanda.

* And when the immediate relief efforts gave way to the long-term recovery phase, the United States worked with the Philippine government, civil society, and the private sector to rebuild affected communities and restore the livelihoods of the Philippine people.

* The U.S. government provided over $140 million of aid to address the damage done by Typhoon Yolanda, but, more significantly, the American people and organizations like the Philippine Humanitarian Coalition stepped up with an outpouring of support.

* Given their strength and resilience, I am certain the Philippines will emerge from Typhoon Yolanda even stronger than before. But the Philippine people will not be on their own.

* As President Obama said when President Aquino graciously hosted him in Manila in April: "The United States will continue to stand with you as you recover and rebuild. Our commitment to the Philippines will not waver."

* Our commitment is evident in the defense cooperation agreement we signed during the President's visit that will enable our militaries to train and exercise together so we are better prepared to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

* Tonight, we pause to look back and mourn the lives tragically lost due to Typhoon Yolanda. But we also remember the generous contribution of many Americans, especially the Filipino-American communities, to the relief and recovery efforts.

* Our cooperation in the face of adversity has strengthened our relationship for an even more secure and prosperous future for both our countries and the Asia-Pacific.


Kathy Chung
Office of the Vice President