‘Ruby’ moves APEC forum from Albay to Manila

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MANILA – The Informal Senior Officials Meeting (ISOM) of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum to be held from Dec 8 to 9 was moved from its original event place in Legazpi City, Albay to Manila, following the approaching Typhoon “Ruby” (local name).

The decision to move was made following the consultation with APEC 2015 National Organizing Committee and Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, according to Malacanang.

“While this is highly unfortunate, we have deemed it best to err on the side of prudence and ensure the safety of the delegates,” Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said in a statement.

Legazpi was also chosen as host to other APEC-related meetings.

Meanwhile, Ochoa also added that Albay  should be focusing on the preparations for the coming Typhoon which was forecasted to hit the Bicol region this weekend.

“I wish to assure everyone that contingencies are in place. The government is ensuring that the rest of the activities push through, and is making preparations for the coming typhoon,” Ochoa said.

“We are united in ensuring the safety and comfort of all delegates; we are likewise conscious of our abiding obligation to ensure that all steps are taken to prepare for the typhoon,” Ochoa said.