HONG KONG (via PLDT) -- The World Food Program (WFP) of the United Nations (UN) has committed to strengthen its food security program in areas in Mindanao that have been affected by the recent armed skirmishes between the military and Moro rebels.
The commitment was relayed to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo by WFP Regional Director for Asia Anthony Banburry.
Banburry called on the President this noon (Tuesday, Dec. 2) at the Presidential Suite of the Island Shangri-La Hotel, the official residence of the President while in Hong Kong attending the first Clinton Global Initiative Asia Meeting.
During the short meeting, the President and Banburry pledged to work closely in bringing peace to Mindanao.
The President also pushed for the Philippines' inclusion in the WFP supply chain that distributes fish, beans and other agricultural produce.
The UN agency has focused on providing assistance to areas affected by the conflict between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, where there are high rates of malnutrition and large numbers of internally displaced persons.
The WFP's commitment will contribute to a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Mindanao by addressing the food security needs of the affected people in the area.