THE WHITE HOUSE

                       Office of the Press Secretary

_______________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release                                     July 27, 2000


                        STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

     Today, I am directing the Department of Veterans Affairs to produce a
study on the needs of Filipino veterans who served with the U.S. Armed
Forces during World War II.  I have asked that the study provide specific
options on how our Veterans Affairs? health care system can address the
needs of these Filipino veterans now living in the United States.

     During World War II, Filipino nationals were called into military
service by Executive Order of the President and fought valiantly under U.S.
command to help achieve peace and freedom in the Pacific.  After the war,
the United States made grants to the Philippine government to provide for
the needs of these veterans.  In addition, some are eligible for benefits
under the United States veterans system.   However, many of these deserving
veterans living in the United States are currently not eligible for such
benefits.

     For several years, my Administration has worked with Members of
Congress such as Representatives Bob Filner and Patsy Mink to recognize the
contributions of Filipino veterans and to improve the compensation and
benefits of those living in the United States.   As this population ages,
it has a growing need for quality health care.  That is why I am asking the
Department of Veterans Affairs to look at ways we can address their needs.
I look forward to the Department?s recommendations.  I am eager to find a
way to fulfill the needs of this deserving group of veterans.

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