‘WE are generally satisfied with the actions and rehabilitation efforts of the Task Force Bangon Marawi [TFBM] as per our observations and meetings with stakeholders, Internally Displaced Persons, Assistant Secretary Felix Castro and Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra. But much work remains to be done.”
This was the assessment of Commissioner Manuelito Luna, the official in-charge of the Visayas and Mindanao for the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), who just returned from a two-day mission to the Islamic City of Marawi, the focus of a massive rehabilitation after being laid siege to in 2017 by homegrown terrorists Maute and Abu Sayyaf Groups led by Omar Maute and Isnilon Hapilon.
The commissioner held meetings with TFBM ground in-charge Assistant Secretary Castro, Mayor Gandamra, regional officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Mindanao State University (MSU) President Habib W. Macaayong, stakeholders and internally displaced persons.
Luna and his team were allowed to inspect the so-called Ground Zero where the main battle took place between government forces and the ISIS-inspired militants.
“I will submit a report for the consideration of the Commission en banc which will be submitted to higher authority for its consideration. At the same time, we will have meetings with the LWUA [Local Water Utilities Administration], DSWD, DPWH and the TFBM so that we will be able to bring to their attention some concerns brought to the attention of the PACC by the carious stakeholders and IDPs,” Luna said.
Image credits: AP/Aaron Favila