MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Convergence Group here firmly belied the unfolded claim asserting that the rehabilitation of the city has been more on the construction of infrastructures and less on the welfare of the people.  

Padoman Paporo, the lead convenor of the group, emphasized that being an internally displaced person (IDP) as well, she would always remain grateful as the government has been giving justice in the enforcement of their programs for the goodness of the impacted residents. 

“The leaders equally gave us the needed attention, assistance and support,” she said.

Paporo attested that the government immediately pushed for normalcy in the city by rolling out early interventions such as the distribution of relief assistance, and food and non-food essentials, including hygiene kits, livelihood starter kits and educational supplies for children. 

Programs were also implemented as support to the psychosocial and mental health, and trauma management of the people. 

Paporo added that financial grants, peace-building activities, and shelter assistance which came in the form of both temporary and permanent shelters were likewise given.

She further said that the debris management was properly handled and cleared the ground zero from UXOs and IED explosives, and tons of debris. 

Moreover, Paporo highlighted the completion of several major vertical and horizontal infrastructures made in the most affected area (MAA) and even in the less affected area (LAA) while stating that city and provincial local leaders have been backing their lobbied efforts to push for the passage of the Marawi Compensation Act by extending logistical support. 

With all these undertakings, the CSO group advanced a stronger optimism for healing as it maintained that the government alongside its partners has been pursuing the well-being of their affected city and not centering its sight on the foundation of buildings alone.

“It is here that one could take a glimpse of a beautiful Marawi, full of hope and opportunities for its people. Let us not stop on our lows and victories. Let us never lose hope in the mercy of Allah because with hope, everything is possible,” said Paporo. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)