Gov’t absence at quake site hit

FILIPINOS AFFECTED by the deadly earthquake that struck New Zealand last Feb. 22 are in the dark. Affected families don’t feel the presence and support of the Philippine government in places where they are badly needed.

According to Marty de Lima, Migrante Aotearoa coordinator in Christchurch, “We have not seen Philippine embassy officials in the affected communities and there is not even a hotline where the affected families can avail of information, get updates and seek support from Philippine authorities. We believe this is crucial especially for those who lost homes and need immediate relocation.”

We are dismayed that the Philippine Embassy is too slow and very reactive in its handling of the situation. Even at the Philippine Embassy website, we can’t find information on the status of Filipinos. During the briefing conducted at Christchurch by Canterbury Police District Commander Dave Cliff with international diplomats days after the earthquake, there was no mention of any Philippine diplomat present.

We are calling the attention of the Philippine Embassy to set up the necessary systems and do its job to assist affected Filipinos in Christchurch.
Migrante Aotearoa has been working with other Filipino community organizations in Christchurch to support the victims. We have been receiving calls on what to do and where to go. Although majority of Migrante members are based in Auckland, they are willing to accommodate distressed Filipinos who would like to move to Wellington or Auckland for the meantime.

—GEORGE MISA,
spokesperson, Migrante Aotearoa,
34 Titirangi Rd, New Lynn,
Auckland 1007,
migrante-aotearoa.org.nz