Davao to turn green with USAID’s support

Davao City’s long-term goal of ultimately turning green is expected to become a reality with the help of the United States Agency for International Development.

USAID Office of Energy and Environment Chief Daniel C. Moore recently assured Councilor Rachel Zozobrado that USAID will “continue to support Davao City’s initiatives.” This was in response to resolution No. 01888-09 where the city council requested the National Economic Development Authority to include the city in the projects that will be implemented under the USAID-NEDA Assistance Agreement signed in September last year.

With that resolution, Moore said, the Davao City Sanggunian has reaffirmed its commitment to partner with USAID to continue to tackle the city’s critical environmental concerns.

“Davao City has been a strong lifetime partner of USAID in addressing environmental problems through a number of partnerships,” Moore said.

Among these, he said, is the Philippine Environmental Governance Project specifically aimed for coastal and forest resources management as well as solid waste management. Also included is the Sustainable Energy Development Program for cleaner through alternative fuels promotion and the Energy and Clear Air Project to reduce pollutive emissions.

“Davao City has one of the world’s cleanest drinking water and these environment-focused programs will help us maintain the city’s competitive advantage,” Zozobrado said.