US gives Philippines 7.25 billion in aid to safeguard environment — embassy
MANILA, Philippines — Washington and Manila have signed a five-year bilateral assistance agreement worth P7.25 billion to protect the Philippine environment, the US Embassy in the Philippines said Wednesday.
The deal was made through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine National Economic Development Authority (NEDA).
"In partnership with national, provincial, and local governments, USAID will implement projects to increase access to clean energy and water; improve natural resource management; and protect the Philippines’ landscapes, wildlife, and fisheries," USAID Philippines Mission Director Lawrence Hardy II is quoted as saying in a statement released by the embassy.
"These projects support the Philippines’ and United States’ shared goal of preserving the Philippines’ world-renowned natural treasures while improving the lives of Filipinos and ensuring sustainable jobs," Hardy added.
The US Embassy said the deal is one of four development assistance agreements — all with a duration of five years — between USAID and the Philippine government valued at P32.7 billion launched either in 2020 or to be launched in 2021.
Here are the three other agreements listed by the embassy:
- USAID - Department of Health: "To improve underserved Filipinos’ well-being by strengthening health systems and improving the quality of health services, especially in treating tuberculosis and providing access to family planning services and community-based drug dependence treatment."
- USAID - Department of Finance: "To accelerate inclusive, market-driven economic growth by advancing policies that increase investment and trade, promoting private-sector led innovation, and increasing information and communications technology access for the digital economy."
- USAID - Department of Education: "To improve early grade reading; expand science and mathematics curricula; increase out-of-school youth access to education, professional training, and technical skills development that will lead to new job opportunities; and strengthen education governance."
"Over the past 20 years, USAID has provided over P216 billion ($4.5 billion) to advance the country’s development goals," the embassy also said.
— Bella Perez-Rubio
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