MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--While the Marawi Recovery Project (MRP) which benefitted more than 51,000 persons affected by the Marawi Siege ends this year, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Australia and Community and Family Services International (CFSI) remain committed to providing support for the recovery of the internally displaced persons of this city. 

CFSI will also continue to provide assistance through the Marawi COVID Recovery Project (MCRP) funded by the Australian government. 

“MRP started in October 2017. It will end this month but the MCRP which started in February 2021 will continue until June 2023. We are not ending, we are continuing to work with you and your people,” said Steven Muncy, Executive Director of Community and Family Services International, during the ceremonial turnover of assistance to IDPs in Sagonsongan Transitory Shelter Site. 

Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Mission Richard Sisson of the Embassy of Australia is pleased that the assistance helped IDPs in providing livelihood support, psychosocial services, assistance to people with special needs and protection support including identification of documents such as birth and marriage certificates.

Sisson highlighted in his message that the Australian government will continue to help Filipinos in times of need. 

“Australia remains committed and is always ready to support the Philippines and Filipinos in times of need. Our work continues as we commenced the MCRP this year to build on the gains of the MRP recovery project and sustain our support to IDPs especially those who have been affected by the CoVid-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic,” said Sisson.

During the ceremonial turnover, another 17 community members received assistance from CFSI and DFAT Australia under the MCRP. (LELA/ PIA Lanao del Sur)