Guimaras rehabilitation efforts picking up
The rehabilitation efforts undertaken by major players in the rehabilitation of Guimaras after the oil spill tragedy are well on their way of being accomplished with the gradual release of funds.
This was learned from the regional directors who attended the Executive Briefing conducted by the Office of Presidential Assistant Raul Banias in cooperation with the Regional Association of National Government Executives (RANGE 6) and the provincial government of Guimaras.
Guimaras province Planning Officer Engr. Evan Arias said the province, especially the communities and the residents badly hit are beginning to regroup and restart their livelihood destroyed by the oil spill. Likewise, he said the resorts are also doing well and the fishing industry is trying hard to return to normalcy.
Environment and Natural Resources Dir. Lormelyn Claudio said the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) has been providing timely monitoring. The P50 million is earmarked for a long term rehabilitation program, as the plan is consistent with the thrusts of the province.
Department of Health Director Lydia Ramos noted that the oil spill did not so far cause casualty on health as expected but this did not keep them from conducting on-going surveillance of diseases. The P5 million just released will be focused on capacity building and infrastructure for the purpose.
DOH is presently coordinating with the provincial government to make sure that the amount will be maximized to address long term effects on the health of the residents.
Social Welfare Director Teresita Rosales said they have released P2.7 million for 15 Self-Assistance Kaunlaran groups who are engaged in seaweeds production, and others.
She added that the agency has fielded more Project Development Officers in five Guimaras municipalities to organize livelihood groups for the P5 million just released, as trainings on business management are simultaneously conducted.
Rosales said they are trying to fast track organizing and training so that the P100 million appropriations will be used effectively.
On the other hand, the Department of Public Highways reported that they have undertaken construction, improvement and rehabilitation of roads and bridges, like the Sibunag Port Improvement, the Guimaras Circumferential Road, Atgang Bridge Project and the Rural Infra in the Agrarian Reform communities Projects.
So far, the Department of Budget and Management said the following amounts have been released: P97 million for LGUs, P205 million for DSWD, P19 million for DA, P50 million for the University of the Philippines, P16 million for the Department of National Defense, P5 million for the Department of Foreign Affairs, P26 million for the Department of Science and Technology and P5 million for Department of Health. (PIA 6/ESS)