US pledges additional R330 M for Marawi rehab

The United States (US) government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has allocated an additional R330 million ($6.6 million) to support vulnerable populations affected by the conflict in Marawi City and surrounding areas.

This was disclosed by US Ambassador Sung Kim in San Fernando, La Union as he said the additional assistance will provide opportunities for young women and men to enhance job skills and attain livelihoods, helping stimulate the economy.

The new funds will also help vulnerable populations strengthen positive engagement within their communities.

The latest pledge brought the total of USAID contributions to the recovery and rehabilitation of Marawi and surrounding areas to over R1 billion ($20.9 million).

“This new funding will support some of the most vulnerable populations affected by the conflict,” Kim said.

“The United States is deeply committed to supporting our friend and ally in long-term recovery efforts to ensure a brighter and more peaceful future for the people of Mindanao,” he added.

The top US diplomat in the country also underscored that the US, through USAID, “has been a key partner of the Philippine government in the recovery, stabilization, and rehabilitation of Marawi City and the surrounding areas.”

“USAID’s early assistance involved restoring access to water and distributing desks for schools where displaced students are enrolled,” Kim noted.

USAID continues to coordinate with the Philippine government and humanitarian organizations to deliver critical relief supplies to improve conditions in evacuation centers and transitional housing. USAID is also providing health clinics in Marawi and surrounding areas with supplies and services to combat tuberculosis and support maternal, newborn, and child health needs.

To bolster the recovery, USAID will also help restore public services, like water and electricity, and will work with communities to jumpstart livelihoods, promote community dialogue, and improve health and education systems.