ILOILO Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. underscored the importance of foreign assistance that helped many Ilonggo survivors recover from the wrath of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
Iloilo is among the provinces in Western Visayas that was badly-hit by Yolanda on November 8, 2013.
“Talking of the funds from the Provincial Government, it is not really substantial compared to the assistance extended by the foreign donors, international non-government organizations, and all kind-hearted foreigners and Filipinos,” Defensor said.
He added the province’s calamity fund was not exhausted due to the support extended by foreign donors to typhoon victims.
Defensor mentioned that among the countries that extended assistance to the province are the United Kingdom, United States of America, Australia, Italy, France, Korea, and Japan.
Only last month, a total of P441.9 million completed Yolanda recovery projects were turned over to the beneficiaries in the towns of Balasan and Ajuy, funded by the Philippine Red Cross in partnership with the British Red Cross (BRC).
Defensor said through the assistance, most fishermen-survivors in the province already recovered because of the fishing boats that were provided to them.
“In terms of livelihood, I think we have practically addressed the urgent needs and problems of the victims of Typhoon Yolanda,” he said.
Defensor said only the housing projects are not yet completed. There is still an ongoing construction of houses in the towns of Estancia, Carles, Balasan and San Dionisio. (PNA)