Australia gives P72M for Mindanao peace

Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels man a machine gun in Sultan Kudarat in this February 11, 2013, file photo. The Australian government has announced a P72-million grant for Mindanao that includes funding for “training, policy advice and technical assistance” for the conclusion of the Bangsamoro Basic Law that is being hammered out by the Philippine government and the MILF. AFP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines-The Australian government has provided fresh aid for Mindanao in support of the peace initiative for the region.

Australian officials recently announced a P72-million (A$1.8 million) grant for Mindanao that includes funding for “training, policy advice and technical assistance” for the conclusion of the Bangsamoro Basic Law that is being hammered out by the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Of the grant, P20 million will be funneled through the World Bank and the United Nations for the crafting of the law that will cover the new juridical entity in the works under the peace talks.

Some P52 million will go to the Mindanao Trust Fund to help develop education, livelihood and health programs in conflict-stricken communities around the region.—Tarra Quismundo