MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Canada has been and will still be a dedicated partner of the Philippines, stressed Canadian Ambassador David Hartman.

“Canada has been a committed partner here, as a member of the international community, and we will continue to be so in the future years,” he said.

Hartman shared that for the past years, they have already implemented various efforts in Marawi citing that his country together with their partners has been quite invested in terms of the transition process.

He stated that they enforce their efforts through the Canada Funds for Local Initiatives which is managed by their embassy based in Manila.

Recently, Hartman and his company visited Marawi and toured the most affected area (MAA).

He said this was an interesting visit as he saw the extent of the damage caused by the tremendous conflict in 2017.

Hartman also said that it was an honor and privilege to witness the reconstruction and restoration program that is taking place in the locality.

As they look forward to their continuing partnership with the country, he conveyed their intent to push for more initiatives that shall benefit the Filipinos.

He said that they are still to determine the future endeavors they would bring here.

“Part of the rationale of me being here is to witness firsthand the opportunities that still exist for continued development over the next number of months and years. I will go back to Manila with my team, consult and determine what our next steps would be,” said Hartman. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)