Intl, local donors in town for forum to 'harmonize' Guimaras aid
Representatives from various international funding institutions and non-government organizations out to help Guimaras communities affected by the oil spill gather tomorrow (Thursday) for a donors' forum.
Aimed at "harmonizing" millions in aid and assistance, the donors are expected to lay down respective rehabilitation plans alongside in-house projects pushed by the government.
A brainchild of the Task Force Sunrise, the forum is said to serve as the provincial government's "primary mechanism for facilitating substantive dialogue" what with development assistance that has since flooded the island.
"This will serve as venue where the province and the donors can discuss coordination and areas for collaboration for the rehabilitation of the island and at the same time finalize commitments to various programs and initiatives," says Guimaras Gov. Rahman Nava, also task force chair.
"At least 11 international funding and relief agencies have already confirmed attendance to the forum, among them the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the German Development Cooperation (GTZ), World Vision International and the United Nations Development Programme. NGOs attending the forum include the Petron Foundation, Mirant, Peace and Equity Foundation, the Philippine Business for Social Progress and the Panay Rural Development Council," the news release went.
"The forum will be highlighted by the presentation of the rapid assessment report on the extent of the damage wrought by the Petron oil spill and the framework for rehabilitation of the provincial government. On the other hand, international agencies and NGOs will be given 10 minutes each to present their programs for Guimaras, their capacity and their resources."