By Betheena Kae Unite The Province of Sorsogon has received US$ 100,000  (about P5 million) financial aid from Taiwan for families affected by the devastation of Typhoon Tisoy that hit the province last month. Representative Peiyung Hsu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines handed over the donation to Vice Chairman Gilberto Lauengco of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office and Sorsogon Governor Francis "Chiz" Escudero Friday. Representative Peiyung Hsu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines hands over US$100,000 check, a donation from the gov't of China (Taiwan) to the victims of Typhoon Tisoy in the Province of Sorsogon (Betheena Unite / MANILA BULLETIN) “As close neighbors, Taiwan always stands together with our friends in the Philippines whenever there is a need,” Representative Hsu said during the turnover ceremony. “Governor Escudero is an old friend of Taiwan. He has been a staunch supporter for Taiwan’s endeavors since he was the Senator of the Philippines. We are very glad that Taiwan can offer our help in return,” Hsu said. Buddhist Tzu-Chi Foundation, Philippines also distributed cash, rice and blankets from Taiwan to the victims in Bulan and Matnog in Sorsogon. Lauengco and Escudero expressed appreciation over the generosity shown by the government of Taiwan. Escudero also pledged to make the best use of the donation for the rehabilitation work in his province and hope to work with Taiwan in the area of agriculture, higher education and technology to advance the development of the province.