20 May 2008—The National Disaster Preparedness Central Committee issued News Release No. 6 today.

The full text of the announcement is as follows:

1. Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe, accompanied by officials, has inspected relief and rehabilitation tasks around Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions since 18 May.

2. After comforting the victims, the Senior General gave guidance on collection of precise data and figures and effective implementation of rehabilitation works after laying down plans systematically. He also gave guidance on compilation of the list of orphans in the storm-hit areas and opening of orphanages in Pyapon District and Labutta.

3. For the time being, the collected storm-victim children are under care according to a special programme in Maubin and Myaungmya, and plans are under wayto comply with the guidance stated in para (2).