Peter Maurer, joined by other officials of the organization, are warmly welcomed by staff and volunteers of the Philippine Red Cross chapter in Marawi upon their arrival at the ICRC water and sanitation project in Bualan spring in Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur.
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Maurer checks the flow of water at the ICRC water and sanitation project in Bualan spring, Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur. The ICRC is improving the water and sanitation facilities in the spring. Once completed, it will benefit between 6,000 to 11,000 residents and displaced people.
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In his visit to Bualan spring, he met community leader Datu Caloy Amer, Sultan of Saguiaran.
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Maurer takes in the devastation in the most affected area (MAA) of Marawi City, Lanao del Sur.
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"Marawi today adds to the destruction of cities I’ve seen, from Taiz, Yemen to Homs, Syria. They are testimony to the difficulties that civilians face when they are confronted with massive military operations or explosions in densely populated areas," Maurer said.
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Maurer shares a light moment with Philippine Red Cross chairman Richard Gordon during the visit to the PRC Marawi chapter. They are flanked by ICRC regional director for Asia and the Pacific Boris Michel and PRC secretary general Elizabeth Zavalla.
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From day one, the ICRC has been working with the Philippine Red Cross in providing aid to people affected by the Marawi crisis. The PRC’s dedicated staff and volunteers have been crucial to the response.
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Maurer stressed upon the organization’s commitment to support and build the Philippine Red Cross’ capacity to respond to emergencies and armed conflict situations.
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He was given a volunteer’s jacket by the Philippine Red Cross-Marawi chapter as a token of gratitude for his visit and support.
ICRC President Peter Maurer visited the Philippines from 3 to 4 June 2019. In his second visit to the country since 2014, President Maurer visited the area devastated by the five-month conflict in Marawi City, met with the affected people, and with staff and volunteers of the Red Cross. He also met with national authorities to discuss the ICRC's priority humanitarian concerns in the country.
