The U.S. Agency for International Development plans to spend $70 million in grant to support development projects in the Philippines. Of the amount, $41 million or 59 percent will be used for programs focusing on education, livelihood, environment, renewable energy and governance in conflict-torn Mindanao. The agency “remains convinced that a lasting peace in Mindanao, which the government and the MILF are now moving toward, is absolutely a key for stability and growth in the entire country,” USAID mission director Jon Lindborg said. The grant constitutes 55 percent of the total aid to the Philippines amounting to $127.07 million this year.
Source: USAID commits $70-M grant for Mindanao (Inquirer)