U.S. Embassy Photo Release
July 20, 2007

 

Stressing U.S. Support for Development, Ambassador Kenney Visits
Gawad Kalinga Development

 

 

 

 

Demonstrating the support of the American people for development and dignity for all Filipino citizens, Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney visited on July 19 a Gawad Kalinga development in the Metro Manila area, where she received a tour and overview of the programs Gawad Kalinga has created to benefit low-income Filipino families.

During her tour, Ambassador Kenney viewed the medical unit, library, coffee shop, and classrooms, where she spoke to students.  She also visited some of the privately owned residences built by Gawad Kalinga volunteers in the development.  Pictured above is Ambassador Kenney with Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto (far right), volunteers, and students.

Gawad Kalinga’s aim is to provide land, homes, electricity, food, healthcare, and education to poverty-stricken areas to work towards peace and dignity for all Filipinos. The group is also involved in providing disaster relief.  

The American people strongly support the goals of the Gawad Kalinga organization and strive to assist the Filipino people through similar humanitarian programs.  In Ligao, Albay Province, U.S. Navy sailors helped build 36 homes for families left homeless by typhoons in 2006.  During the Balikatan 2007 joint military exercises, U.S. soldiers helped dig foundations in Cavite for homes being built at a Gawad Kalinga community for low-income families.

Ambassador Kenney was impressed with the transformation of this community, clearly exemplified in before-and-after photos hanging in the main classroom.  She commended the many volunteers for striving to give all Filipinos the necessary tools to cultivate their great potential.

# # #