By Genalyn Kabiling
Progress has been made in the rehabilitation of Marawi City but it cannot be completed overnight, according to Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar.
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar (PCOO / MANILA BULLETIN)
In a recent visit to Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Andanar asked for patience from the Marawi residents as the government moves to implement the rebuilding efforts in the war-ravaged city.
"This does not happen overnight, but there are continuous developments to fulfill the projects,” Andanar said in Bisaya last Wednesday.
"Slowly, we are carrying out housing and infrastructure projects. These are the progress. This is not done overnight given the conflict, not only military but also cultural conflict," he added.
Andanar said President Duterte has set aside funds to rebuild Marawi City following a five-month terror siege in May, 2017.
The resettlement projects and other assistance for the displaced residents are also underway, he said.
“We just need to be patient. Rest assured that there is budget. President Duterte already allotted that for our brothers and sisters in Marawi," he said.
The President recently designated Housing Secretary Eduardo del Rosario to oversee the prompt release of funds needed for the Marawi rehabilitation program.
Duterte asked Del Rosario to serve as "pointman" to closely coordinate with the Department of Budget and Management on the fund release after some residents complained of the sluggish completion of projects.
Del Rosario is the new Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. He also serves as chairman of Bangon Marawi Task Force.