THE European Union (EU) targets to explore more help to Mindanao through more job generation and sustainable energy projects.
According to EU delegate Walter Van Hattum, during the presscon at Seda Abreeza last Friday, May 12, there is around 300 million Euro development assistance fund provided by EU for socio-economic and humanitarian aid in the Philippines.
Roughly around 50 million Euros of this will be allotted to Mindanao although the final amount will still be subject for further confirmation.
“What we fully realize is this is one of the areas in the country where there’s the most need for development because if you compare Mindanao with let’s say, Manila, the income level is a lot lower here. So here, there is a lot more need for much support,” Hattum said.
He said they are currently identifying new projects in collaboration with the government and other implementing partners including the Mindanao Development Authority (Minda).
“We already are supporting Mindanao with a number of projects, as you know we are involved in the peace process. We also are the largest owner to the World Bank Mutual Trust Funds for Mindanao,” Hattum said.
The Europe Development assistance to Mindanao targets support towards rule of law and inclusive growth for the island. Currently, a project in support of the regional Human rights Commission in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) is being rolled out.
Through the Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF), administered by the World Bank, more than 140,000 were reported to have increased income due to the post-harvest and fishing facilities provided to them. Also, about 137,000 were given access to safe and potable water.
Future projects related to the development assistance will contribute to the development and stability and to bring more opportunities and decent employment including improved livelihoods.
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