Nancy Binay urges inclusion of IPs, IDPs in Marawi rehab planning

Indigenous peoples (IPs) and internally displaced persons (IDPs) must be included in the government's 23-member Task Force Bangon Marawi which would create the rehabilitation plan for the war-stricken city, Senator Nancy Binay said Sunday.

“If we are to rebuild a better Marawi, it is important that we involve those who will eventually return to rebuild their lives there in the creation of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, that will not only address the devastation caused by the clashes but will also come up with solutions to address lingering issues like poverty, inequality, and misunderstanding in order to put a stop to extremism and radicalization in the region,” Binay said in an emailed statement.

“I hope that our IPs and IDPs will be allowed to participate in the task force as it will be deciding on issues of security and safety, housing and infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, education, and psycho-social support for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health problems that may have been caused by the clashes in Marawi,” she added.

President Rodrigo Duterte had declared Marawi City free of the ISIS-linked Maute group last Tuesday, following the death of two of its leaders - Isnilon Hapilon, the reported emir of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia, and the Maute group leader Omar Maute.

Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno on Wednesday said the government would issue "Marawi bonds", which would fund the administration's rehabilitation efforts.

“By listening to our brothers and sisters who have been directly affected by the clashes, we ensure that our efforts match their needs and that they are truly represented in deciding on matters that will shape the future of Marawi City. I believe that involving them in the government’s efforts will greatly impact how they perceive the future of Marawi—one that is truly inclusive and concerned with the needs of its people,” Binay said. — Jon Viktor Cabuenas/DVM, GMA News