UNDP: Japan largest donor for Visayas rehab

MANILA, Philippines - The Japanese government is the biggest supporter of the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Yolanda recovery project, granting an additional $3.5 million (P157 million) for the recovery of typhoon-ravaged Visayas.

The humanitarian agency forged an agreement with Japan on Thursday to boost the humanitarian aid aiming to restore livelihood and inject cash into the local economy.

UNDP said Japan has greatly contributed to operations to clear debris and strengthen local government services.

"This rapid support from donors enabled UNDP to roll out a cash-for-work effort within three weeks of the crisis," the organization said In a statement Thursday.

UNDP chief Helen Clark, the third highest UN official, witnessed the signing ceremony in Manila. Clark is a former prime minister of New Zealand.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe said that Japan will continue its support disaster stricken communities.

"The government of Japan is committed to help rebuild the affected communities as they remain determined to recover in the face of immense obstacles and personal tragedy," he said.

Japan has pledged over P919 million in cash and non-cash humanitarian aid. It has also sent the largest military humanitarian mission in its modern history to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts in the Visayas.