DAVAO CITY – The Philippines and Japan have officially entered into an agreement to acquire $6.8-million worth of construction.
This project will enhance the road network and improve disaster risk response in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in a public address on Tuesday, November 14.
“I am also pleased to report that, during the recent visit of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, we signed and exchanged the Diplomatic Notes on the Non-Project Grant Aid for the acquisition of $6.8 million dollars-worth of Construction Equipment for Road Network Improvement and Disaster Quick Response Operation in BARMM. That is Japan,” Marcos said.
The Non-Project Grant Aid (NPGA) covers the procurement of construction equipment.
The primary objective is to provide support in relief operations, including the restoration and clearance of vital access roads, bridges, and waterways. Additionally, it aims to contribute to relief efforts during calamities and disasters, as highlighted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Furthermore, the initiative seeks to address the impact of flooding exacerbated by climate change in the Bangsamoro region. The aid is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the overall infrastructure and disaster resilience of the BARMM.