by Claire R. Gigje
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)–Canada has been and will still be a dedicated partner of the Philippines, with a number of programs initiated here, Canadian Ambassador David Hartman stressed.
“Canada has been a committed partner here as a member of the international community, and we will continue to be so in the future years,” he said.
Hartman said they have been working on different things in this city for the past few years. He also said that his country and its partners have put a lot of effort into the transition process.
He claimed that the Canada Funds for Local Initiatives, run by their embassy in Manila, are how they carry out their plans.
Recently, Hartman and his company also visited the city and toured the most affected area (MAA).
He remarked that it was an interesting visit because he could see the extent of the harm the severe conflict in 2017 had caused.
Hartman also expressed that it was an honor and privilege to witness the reconstruction and restoration program that is taking place in the locality.
As they looked forward to continuing to work with the Philippines, he also told them that they wanted to push for more initiatives that would help the Filipinos.
He mentioned that they are still determining the future endeavors they will bring here.
“Part of the rationale of my being here is to witness firsthand the opportunities that still exist for continued development over the next number of months and years. I will go back to Manila with my team, consult, and determine what our next steps would be,” said Hartman. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
####
