BACOLOD CITY– The provincial government of Negros Occidental is launching a campaign to raise funds and other forms of assistance for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. said he presented the idea to President Rodrigo Duterte during the latter’s visit to this city for the 38th MassKara Festival on Sunday, and he got the support of the Chief Executive for the initiative dubbed “Negros Cares.”
“I will ask the Provincial Board for authority to spearhead the fund-raising and I (also) encourage the local government units to do the same,” Marañon said.
Starting Monday, the governor appealed to Negrenses to donate in cash or in kind.
Marañon said he would also tap local churches, private organizations, sugar planters associations and other groups interested to help.
Although “Negros Cares” is not targeting any amount, he believes the bigger the better.
The drop off center for donations would be at the Provincial Capitol here, and other strategic areas, the governor said.
Moreover, Marañon also echoed the call of the President for the people to remain alert even after the crisis in Marawi had ended.
The governor said Negrenses should immediately report to authorities all suspicious people and activities in their communities.
Last June, Negros Occidental also donated a PHP1 million financial assistance to Marawi as unanimously approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
The fund was sourced from the province’s subsidy for local government units released in the form of assistance and donations.
Marañon then said: “Negros Occidental stands with our Marawi brothers and sisters.”
At the time, the Capitol accepted donations that included halal food packs and bottled water and non-food items such as hygiene kits, batteries/power banks, flashlights/portable lamps, first aid kits, blankets, and sleeping mats. (Nanette Guadalquiver/PNA)
