Envoy: US aid for Yolanda survivors all accounted for

MANILA, Philippines - Despite reports on the alleged misuse of funds, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg said yesterday his government is satisfied with the way their financial assistance for the recovery and rehabilitation of Yolanda-hit areas in the country is being handled.

“We believe every dollar of our money is accounted for and we’re satisfied with the process that has gone on from our point of view,” Goldberg said during the “Kapihan sa Embahada” at the US embassy last Monday.

The US committed $142.5 million for immediate, emergency and current assistance for recovery, said USAID Philippines mission director Gloria Steele. 

“We’re constantly monitoring the assistance that we’ve provided,” Steele said.

“We’ll continue to be there until all affected areas are able to stand up on their own.”

The US also provided funds for the office of Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Secretary Panfilo Lacson for the implementation of an 800-page rehabilitation plan.

Steele said the US is building 10 clinics, 165 classrooms and 1,000 sari-sari stores in Yolanda areas. A microfinance fund was put up in order to help communities get back on their feet, he added.