EU grant for Mindanao reaffirms PGMA effort for peace — DFA

MANILA, July 9 — The European Commission’s recent approval of an additional humanitarian grant of Euros three million (about P200 million) for Mindanao is “a reaffirmation of the European Union’s confidence in the Arroyo administration’s continuing efforts to achieve lasting peace” in that region, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo said today.

The EC’s Humanitarian Aid Department approved the additional grant last week for food and nutrition, water and sanitation and primary health care needs of victims of the conflict in Mindanao for implementation over a period of nine months.

“This additional aid will further boost the Philippine government’s humanitarian programs in Mindanao. It is also a reaffirmation of the EU’s confidence in the Arroyo administration’s continuing efforts to achieve lasting peace in Mindanao,” Romulo stated.

Last October and December, humanitarian assistance of Euros 6.5 million was given, plus Euros three million in rehabilitation grant also in October.

The funding will be coursed through international organizations in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the National Disaster Coordinating Council. (PNA)

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