TO PROMOTE and strengthen ongoing peace development initiatives in Mindanao, the Mindanao Development Authority (Minda) signs a bilateral agreement with United States government in extending the implementation of the Mindanao Peace Development Program (MPAD) until September 2019.
MPAD, a United States Agency for International Development (Usaid) grant assistance currently under Minda, visions to promote economic growth in the identified areas of Minda through expansion of economic opportunities, infrastructure development, as well as improvement in governance and social services.
The signing of the bilateral agreement brings in a total of US$ 11.45 million funding in rehabilitating conflicted areas in Mindanao like Marawi City and some areas in the province of Lanao del Sur. Along with the funding is the support which will create projects on ensuring good governance and social cohesions in the said conflicted areas.
Minda secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto said in a statement that the development authority is hoping to make the most out of this extended agreement by fast tracking implementation of responsive and culturally sensitive programs and projects in Marawi City and its nearby provinces.
Alonto underscored the importance of securing peace and order in Mindanao in order to reflect economic progress as well.
He said the Usaid partnered project with Task Force Bangon Marawi that will help put solar-powered streetlamps in order to provide light services in refugee camps for Maranaos affected from last year’s siege.
“These might be small efforts from the Usaid but important enough in making sure that the needs of Maranaos are addressed,” Romeo Montenegro, Minda deputy executive director said. (GAD)