28 November 2013 – The Philippine Government convened a meeting today with development partners to outline the initial Yolanda Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan, a programmatic framework that covers strategic development outcomes ranging from shelter and employment, to power restoration, education and infrastructure.
The meeting was co-moderated by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima. Also present were Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene D. Almendras, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Arsenio M. Balisacan and National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon.
Around 25 development partners—countries, multilateral organizations and aid agencies—were on hand to exchange views with the Philippine government on the latter’s post recovery and reconstruction plan.
In his welcome remarks, Secretary del Rosario noted that the presence of the Philippines’ development partners in the Meeting signified the “steadfast and unparalleled commitment to help rebuild the Visayas. Indeed, the urgency to put together a well-coordinated, multi-stakeholder reconstruction program has never been greater.”
“We hope to rise above this unprecedented devastation to nurture a sustainable economy that is more inclusive – one that will harness the collective strength and spirit of our Visayan brothers and sisters. Confronted with the daunting task of rebuilding Central Philippines, we view Yolanda’s challenge as an opportunity for the Philippines to further stimulate the economy and improve the quality of life of our people,” Secretary del Rosario added.
Secretary Almendras expressed gratitude and appreciation for the overwhelming support of the international community and stressed the important role of the development partners in facilitating the recovery process.
After the presentation, the discussion revolved mainly around: the need to build more resilient communities; the ways to ensure proper coordination of the efforts of the Philippine Government, international and non-governmental organizations and the rest of the donor community; and the role of the private sector in the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase.
The development partners reaffirmed their full and continuing support for and solidarity with the Filipino people as they face the great challenge of rebuilding stronger and more resilient communities in the wake of typhoon Yolanda. END