Indonesia to help build schools, hospitals in Philippines

Indonesian Ambassador Dr. Sinyo Harry Sarundajang has extended Jakarta’s commitment to help the Philippines in building more schools and hospitals in the country.

Sarundajang has informed President Duterte about the plan during a courtesy last Wednesday at the Matina Enclaves, Davao City.

Malacanang said the chief executive in return has conveyed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthen bilateral relations with Indonesia.

Duterte told the ambassador that Indonesia is a “good friend and neighbor” to the Philippines.

Duterte said the administration will be reciprocating the good relations with the cooperation of the Philippine government’s security forces to jointly enhance the security measures of both countries.

Duterte also expressed interest in partnering with the Indonesian government to improve the health and education situation in the country.

Sarundajang had, in return, expressed his gratitude to President Duterte for extending his warm welcome.

During the meeting, the Indonesian Ambassador conveyed the Indonesian government’s intent to build schools and hospitals in the Philippines.

Sarundajang also commended President Duterte for his efforts in achieving lasting peace in the country, particularly in Mindanao. The Indonesian government also intends to extend assistance in developing Mindanao and in the rehabilitation of Marawi City.

Throughout the meeting, Sarundajang was accompanied by his secretary Freddy Lengkong and Indonesian Consul General Berlian Napitupulu.

On the Philippine side, present were Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ernesto Abella; DFA Assistant Secretary Robert Ferrer; Defense Undersecretary Cardozo Luna; and Transportation Assistant Secretary Fernando Perez.

Following Sarundajang’s courtesy call, President Duterte received Dante Ang, who turned over the book by Ruchir Sharma titled “The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the PostCrisis World.”