DPWH warns vs groups soliciting funds for Marawi

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) yesterday warned the public against unscrupulous persons and groups soliciting funds for the rehabilitation of Marawi.

In a statement, DPWH Undersecretary Rafael Yabut said they received reports that some people have been using the names of DPWH officials to solicit money or favor.

Yabut said fund-raising activities for rehabilitation work in Marawi is also prohibited. He urged the public to report unscrupulous activities to the DPWH hotline 165-102.

The DPWH is the head of the sub-committee on reconstruction of Task Force Bangon Marawi that President Duterte created. The sub-committee’s primary role is the repair, rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, bridges, public schools and other government infrastructure in the city.

The DPWH had earlier allocated P241.69 million to develop a land in Barangay Sagosongan where transitory shelters for around 1,100 evacuees from Marawi will be built. The amount will cover clearing and grubbing, fuel and model house cost, asphalt overlay and drainage work.

Rice, chocolates, letters for soldiers

In a related development, soldiers fighting Maute militants in Marawi received the chocolates and letters sent by members of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Zamboanga City yesterday.

The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao regional government also delivered 100 sacks of rice at Camp Ranao.

The sacks of rice will be brought to military units at the main battle area today, Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesperson, said.

“Rest assured, our troops are more motivated to bring back peace and stability in Marawi City,” Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander, said.

Westmincom chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said the chocolates and letters from Boy Scouts are expected to bring renewed strength and vigor to the soldiers.