Duterte: Gov’t expediting Marawi rehab

President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday vowed to expedite the rehabilitation program for war-torn Marawi as the government marked the fourth year of the city’s liberation from the ISIS-inspired Maute group. 

“Let me take this opportunity to reassure the people of Marawi that the government is doing its best to expedite the completion of rehabilitation projects at the soonest possible time,” Duterte said in a speech at the Rizal Park in Marawi.

“We, in government, are strongly committed to bring back the city’s glory. And we will continue to foster cooperation among concerned stakeholders so that Marawi will be able to build back better and stronger.”

The rehabilitation program came in full swing after Duterte announced on October 17, 2017 Marawi's liberation from the Maute rebels after a five-month battle.

Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) chairperson Eduardo Del Rosario earlier reassured that the rehabilitation of public infrastructures in Marawi would be completed within Duterte’s term.

“I congratulate and commend the Task Force Bangon Marawi as well as the local officials and other partners for working together to rehabilitate the city,” Duterte said.

During the program, the President witnessed the distribution of Certificates of Title for permanent housing units from the National Housing Authority (NHA) and turnover of financial assistance from the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). 

Prior to the event proper, Duterte inspected the newly constructed Jameo Mindanao Al-Islamie or the Grand Mosque, considered to be the biggest house of worship in Marawi.

“This place holds a historical and cultural significance in the lives of the Maranaos. We rejoice as a nation as the Grand Mosque of Marawi brings hope anew for our Muslim brothers and sisters,” he said.

“I especially commend the efforts and sacrifices you have poured out for the complete rehabilitation of the Grand Mosque of Marawi.”

Duterte also gave recognition to the soldiers, police personnel, and local constituency “for their bravery, sacrifice, and determination in defending and liberating Marawi City after five months of battle.“

“I pray to God that it will never happen ever again,” he said.

The President committed that his administration remains steadfast in securing the nation against terrorism, violent extremism, and other lawless elements.

“With your support, I am confident that we will overcome any challenge that may test our strength and unity as a nation,” Duterte said.

“Let us therefore continue working as one to secure a better, safer, and more prosperous future for all of Marawi.” — VBL, GMA News