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-- <May 20,
2003>
Congresswoman Bordallo Entertains
Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 20, 2003 – Washington,
D.C. – This week, Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal
Arroyo conducted an official State Visit to Washington D.C. This
visit included face to face discussions with President Bush as well
as a luncheon hosted by the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus of
which Congresswoman Bordallo is a member. During her discussions
with President Bush, Her Excellency urged the President to lend
his support to H. Res. 65 -- legislation which would extend eligibility
for benefits under programs administered by the Secretary of Veterans
Affairs to Filipino veterans. During the luncheon, Her Excellency
conveyed the President’s intent to support the passage of
this legislation.
“This is a bold step towards helping out Filipino
constituents,” remarked the Congresswoman. “It
has been well over 50 years since World War II ended, and it is
high time that these individuals be recognized for their bravery.”
During the Luncheon, the Congresswoman also had the opportunity
to discuss immigration issues with Her Excellency, including the
feasibility of adding the Philippines to the Visa Waiver Program.
The Congresswoman also extended an invitation for President Arroyo
to visit Guam in the near future.
“I am hopeful that Her Excellency will be able to
work a visit to Guam into her extremely busy schedule,”
said the Congresswoman. “The Filipino Community of
Guam is thriving, and they are a source of pride for us that I hope
we can share with the world.”
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Contact: Neil Weare
in Washington, D.C., at (202) 225-1188 or Joaquin
Perez in Guam at (671) 477-4272.
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