Partners for Peace and Development

The United States has again expressed its support for peace and development in Mindanao, evidenced by the rehabilitation of a 4.6-kilometer portion of the Maimbung Road in Sulu. Photo shows (l-r) US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney, US Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes, Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCo) Undersecretary Virgilio Leyretana, and Sulu Governor Benjamin Loong, during a ceremony marking the official turn-over of the road to local residents. The project was undertaken by a partnership between the Provincial Government of Sulu and USAID’s Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program.

The road rehabilitation has spurred economic and social activities in the area. Farmers and traders are now  assured of safer, faster, and less expensive access to markets, and residents have better access to health, education, and other social services. By August 2007, GEM, in conjunction with provincial governments, will construct approximately 40 regional impact projects, including port upgrades, bridges, and road upgrades, throughout conflict-affected areas of Mindanao. In conjunction with local governments, it will also construct approximately 815 smaller infrastructure projects designed to expand economic opportunities within selected areas. GEM’s infrastructure projects are part of President Arroyo’s commitment to further peace and development in Sulu.GEM is being implemented under the oversight of the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCo). (GEM Program)