The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) provided relief assistance to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in various evacuation centers in Iligan City affected by the ongoing armed conflict between the government forces and extremist Maute group in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar has directed Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain to spearhead the distribution of relief goods on June 14, 2017 to a total of 3,572 IDPs in five (5) evacuation centers located at Buru-un School of Fisheries, Ma. Cristina Gym, Tibanga Gym, Sta. Elena Gym and Buru-un Gym in Iligan City.
A total of 1,428 IDPs in Madrasa and Muslim employees of DPWH, including the 103rd Infantry Battalion also benefitted in the relief initiative of the DPWH.
On June 22, 2017, Undersecretary Sadain, in coordination with the Marawi City Crisis Management Group, will also proceed to Marawi City, Malabang, Lanao del Sur where 5,000 IDPs are temporarily evacuated to distribute relief goods and foodstuff for the uniformed personnel of the 6th Infantry Battalion.
Funds, in the total amount of P4.78 Million, for the relief operations came from the voluntary financial contributions of DPWH officials and employees of the DPWH Central Office, 17 Regional Offices and 182 District Engineering Offices nationwide.
With the financial contributions collected, DPWH will also extend financial assistance to families of soldiers killed or wounded in action.
Also active in the relief operations are DPWH Region X Director Virgilio Eduarte, UPMO Director Madzmo Hasim, and Lanao Del Norte 2nd DEO District Engineer Rey Peter Guille.
On plans for reconstruction and rebuilding Marawi City, DPWH will be part of a National Oversight Committee that will be responsible for conducting clearing operations, damaged assessment on infrastructure and facilities such as roads, bridges, water supply systems, government centers, schools, public markets, houses, mosques, churches and other vital structures including the preparation of design plans and programs of work.