31.   A presidential palace statement said Ramos issued the directive after thousands of dead fish, crab and shrimp were found floating along the coastline late this week.

32.   A palace statement quoted Ramos as also urging both houses of congress to extend all assistance for the success of the visit.

33.   A palace statement said Sultan Qaboos emerged unscathed from the accident, but there was no official confirmation of the death.

34.   A palace statement late Monday said Sultan Qaboos emerged unscathed from the accident.

35.   A palace statement said he had recovered from an undisclosed illness brought on by overwork.

36.   A palace statement Thursday said his condition had significantly improved, with his temperature, heart, blood pressure and respiratory functions all normal.

37.   Demetria will return to his old post as justice undersecretary, the palace statement said.

38.   The palace statement quoted Ramos as saying he would meet representatives of other business sectors to raise more money.

39.   The Philippines and Luxembourg pledged to improve economic ties, a presidential palace statement here said Saturday.

40.   The Philippines police have launched a drive to curb a spate of kidnappings for ransom here, a presidential palace statement said here Sunday.