Binay invited to China for Asian Para Games

Vice-President Jejomar Binay has been invited to China on an official mission — for the opening of the Asian Para Games and not for discussion on August 23 hostage tragedy. Binay received an invitation from the Chinese government to the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Asian Para Games in Guangzhou, China on December 12. Relations between the Philippine and Chinese governments were already strained after the August 23 hostage crisis in Manila where eight Chinese nationals from Hong Kong, as well as the Filipino hostage-taker, were killed. The Philippine government tried to seek an audience with leaders in China to explain the penalties that President Benigno Simeon Aquino III decided to mete out to those involved in the bus siege. However, the Chinese government reportedly could not accommodate into its schedule the Philippine delegation led by Binay that was supposed to fly to China. Invitation from China On Thursday, excerpts of the letter Chinese Ambassador Liu Jianchao were posted in an article on the Office of the Vice-President (OVP) website. "The Chinese side would be highly appreciative of your kind consideration and attendance towards the success of Guangzhou Asian Para Games," said a letter to Binay from the ambassador. Binay thanked the Chinese government for the invitation. "I deeply appreciate the invitation from the Chinese government and I look forward to personally extending my thanks to their officials during the opening ceremonies. I also look forward to the chance to cheer for our Filipino athletes," Binay said. Binay said he believes in the goal of the Para Games and is optimistic that the Filipino contingent will do well in the competition. “It is truly inspiring when persons with disabilities show the world that they too can compete in different sport disciplines," he said. This is the first Asian Para Games to be held after the Far East and South Pacific Games (FESPIC Games) was dissolved in 2006. The competition is comparable to the recently concluded Asian Games, and is expected to be a stepping stone for Asian athletes aiming for the London 2012 Paralympics. Officials of the Asian Para Games are expecting that 5,500 athletes from 45 Asian member nations that will participate in this multisport competition. Dialogue with Filipino community While in China, Binay is set to hold a dialogue with the Filipino Community in Guangzhou where he is expected to raise the issue of illegal recruitment in China. He also warned Filipinos not to agree to be used as drug mules by criminal organizations. “Magtulungan tayo. Lubos akong nalulungkot dahil madalas, ang mga biktima mismo ang ayaw magtuloy ng kaso laban sa mga illegal recruiters. Dito kailangang magtulungan ang gobyerno at sng mga OFWs," he said. (Let us help each other. I am saddened because many victims do not want to pursue charges against illegal recruiters. Let us help government and the OFWs.) – VVP, GMANews.TV