Philippines withdraws Iraq deployment offer

The Philippines has abruptly scrapped its offer to send peacekeeping troops back to Iraq under a United Nations framework in a fresh turnaround that risks further alienating its key allies.

Last month it withdrew its 51-man contingent from the war-torn country to save the life of a hostage threatened with beheading.

The move drew the criticism of the United States and other coalition partners.

Yesterday, Foreign Secretary Delia Albert said she had called for a meeting to discuss sending peacekeepers under a US-led multinational force approved by a UN resolution in June.

But Ms Albert now stresses that "there are no discussions on this matter at policy level or with other countries."

"The possibility of sending another humanitarian contingent to Iraq is not being contemplated," she said.

Ms Albert says that the Philippines "remains committed to a democratic, stable and pluralistic Iraq" and will continue to do "what it can, within its capabilities and pursuant to its interests."

Protests

Meanwhile, hundreds of Philippine workers have held a noisy protest in Manila demanding the Government lifts a ban on working in Iraq.

The ban was imposed when Angelo de la Cruz was taken hostage.

However, workers continue to queue outside a labour recruitment centre for a chance to join around 4,000 compatriots working in manual labour jobs in Iraq, mostly inside US military bases.

Holding placards and streamers appealing for President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to lift the ban, the protesters say they are losing the chance to feed their families and escape poverty at home.

"In Iraq, we only have to face bullets from terrorists," Dave Santos, a tricycle driver, said.

"But in our country we are up against three enemies - breakfast, lunch and dinner."

The Government has said it is studying whether to lift the ban.

-- Reuters/AFP

From: http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200408/s1174440.htm