THE United States has made a fresh donation of $14.3 million or P730 million to finance emergency relief and recovery assistance for the communities affected by the ongoing conflict in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur and the surrounding areas, an official said Tuesday.
In a round-table discussion with selected reporters, US ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim also said American forces will conduct a training program with the Armed Forces of the Philippines on neutralizing improvised explosive devices.
“The most urgent challenge is the conflict in Marawi. We all look forward to the end of the fighting and suffering,” said Kim who has been in Manila for nine months.
“The United States is deeply committed to this partnership and remains ready to support our friend and ally as we face the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Of the P750 million, P153 million will go to USAID’s office of US Foreign Disaster Assistance to deliver critical supplies such as safe drinking water, hygiene kits, shelter materials for the evacuation centers and for the programs to protect displaced women and children.
The the rest of the money or P577 million will finance the recovery, stabilization and rehabilitation of Marawi and its surrounding areas.
“This money will focus on restoring basic public services including health care, water and electricity, jump-starting livelihood and promoting community reconciliation,” Kim said.
The P730 million adds to the assistance provided by USAID, including the 12,000 water containers and the nearly 100,000 chlorine tablets to help bring safe drinking water to the families in the evacuation centers, as well as the 6,500 desks for temporary schools and psycho-social support for affected teachers and students.
The US Public Affairs Section will also be providing P22 million for educational and informational programs that will bring together students and women leaders to explore innovative ways to address the challenges facing Marawi’s residents.
Tuesday was the first time Kim conducted a round-table discussion with reporters in Manila since he was appointed by former US President Barrack Obama last year.
“Now, about nine months into my tenure here, I think I have a good sense of the depth of the US-Philippine relationship and what that relationship means to both countries,” Kim said.