(24 Sep 1999) English/Nat
The latest detachment of the U-N peacekeeping force has arrived in East Timor.
The Philippines Forces were greeted Friday in the capital Dili by the U-N commander Major General Peter Cosgrove.
The first contingent of Philippines soldiers arrives at Dili.
The 122 troops take their first steps on East Timorese soil - here to bolster the multinational peacekeeping forces.
They're welcomed by the local people - both Filipinos and East Timorese share a common bond through strong catholic faith.
UPSOUND: (English)
"How are you? Welcome. I'd like to welcome you to East Timor and the Chief of the Defence force of Australia also welcomes you."
The Philippines' Commanding Officer is greeted on his arrival - and introduced to the U-N Commander here Major General Peter Cosgrove.
The Major General called Thursday for more international troops to help him restore security in the territory.
The Philippines has provided this advance party, to be joined by about 500 more, to help speed up the U-N peacekeeping efforts which began in Dili this week.
Support for the mission back home in the Philippines is strong and morale is high among the rank and file.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
" We are very much happy to be in the multinational force to assist the East Timorese in humanitarian mission."
SUPERCAPTION: Lieutenant Macaran, Philippines Special Forces
The Philippine troops will be working in a humanitarian capacity, providing engineering skills and helping with logistics.
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