by Ellalyn B. De Vera and Madel Sabater-Namit
The Australian government has agreed to extend assistance to the Philippines worth a total of AUS$6 million, or about P200 million, as its commitment to the peace process in Mindanao, and to help the battle against online sexual abuse of children.

In separate meetings with Philippine officials, Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said her government was reaffirming its support to the peace process in Mindanao and will provide AUS$4 million, or about P133 million, and was pledging AUS$2 million (P66.93 million) to protect Filipino children from online abuse.

In her meeting with the Philippine Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles, Bishop said the Australian grant would be spread over the next three years for the joint security and justice mechanisms of the peace.

“In my meeting with Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles, I confirmed Australia’s commitment to promoting development and prosperity in conflict affected regions of Mindanao in the Southern Philippines,” Bishop said in a statement.

According to her, the Australian government was providing the assistance in partnership with the  United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP).

This, Bishop said, includes support for ceasefire monitoring to ensure the continuation of peace and stability.

“Australia’s contribution will also enable responsible business investment in the proposed Bangsamoro Autonomous area and will support economic development,” she said.

According to Bishop, Australia’s strong and enduring support for the peace process has included technical expertise to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) during the negotiation period.

“Australian support and expertise through NGOs including the Asia Foundation and International Alert, has also increased the capacity of Philippines Government and the MILF to implement the peace process,” she said.

In helping combat online sexual abuse of children, Bishop signed an agreement with Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman and Justice Secretary Benjamin Caguioa wherein the Australian government will extend the financial assistance “to help the Philippines install mechanisms for safeguarding Filipino children against online threats.”

“This is an abhorrent crime. It is a serious social issue and it is not only confined to the Philippines (but) all countries are affected by this including Australia,” Bishop said.

Source: Manila Bulletin