Below is the statement of Dr. Alberto G. Romulo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, on United States Peace Corps Volunteer Julia Campbell:
On behalf of the Filipino people, I wish to express my most heartfelt sympathies to the family of United States Peace Corps volunteer Julia Campbell.
Ms. Campbell came to the Philippines to work in the Peace Corps ecological and educational programs. Her last assignment was helping Filipinos hone their English language skills in order to better face the challenges of this new age of globalization. This is a testament to her great character, generosity and dedication to serve others.
In my meeting with Peace Corps Director Ronald Tschetter, I had the opportunity to thank him personally for the initiatives of his organization, particularly with respect to programs in youth services, coastal resource management and education that are being implemented in the Philippines. Credit for the success of these programs is due largely to the tireless work of such Peace Corps volunteers as Ms. Campbell.
At present, there are in the Philippines over 100 Peace Corps volunteers engaged in active programs, more than in any other country in the world. Without doubt, the Peace Corps and the volunteers that constitute it are an important element in shaping the bonds of goodwill and understanding between the Filipino and American people.
The Philippine authorities are fully committed to conducting a thorough investigation into this tragic event.
My condolences go out to Ms. Campbells family, friends and colleagues in the Peace Corps in this time of sorrow. (DFA) davaotoday.com
