World Bulletin / News Desk

Moro Muslims has thanked Japan for approving and providing funds for nine more development projects for conflicted-affected areas (CAAs) in Mindanao, The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) said on its website.

Mohagher Iqbal, MILF chief peace negotiator, speaking for the MILF Central Committee, described the approval of these projects as sign of the continuing evidence of Japan's commitment to help the people of Mindanao especially Moros as well as the peace process between MILF and Philippine government..

"In the name of the MILF, I personally extend our thanks to the Japanese people and government and Ambassador Katsura and staff for their help to our people," Iqbal said.

This is the third Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects under J-BIRD.

Since the launching of the J-BIRD in 2006, Japan has already assisted 23 projects under the GGP in the total amount approximately P62 million. The new package of assistance, amounting to about P31 million will form part of Japan's commitment to support peace and development in Mindanao.

The new nine projects are school buildings, potable water system, an educational center, a rural health unit, and an irrigation system.

All these projects are people-identified, in coordination with the MILF's Bangsamoro Development Agency.

Japan is a member of the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, which is yet to get a new mandate from the government and MILF in order to operate again in Mindanao.

Güncelleme Tarihi: 18 Nisan 2009, 10:11