Idle gov’t lots for rehabilitation

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Richard Gordon has called for sustained relief and rehabilitation efforts to ease the plight of those dislocated by typhoons and help put the country’s economy back on track.

Noting that traders were among those severely displaced, Gordon has suggested the use of government-owned vacant lots and buildings as relocation sites for manufacturers and entrepreneurs.

“Shoe manufacturers and other businessmen, particularly in Marikina and Laguna, have already lost income and possible profits because they are unable to continue manufacturing their products as floods remain in several areas,” he said.

The lawmaker, a strong advocate of volunteerism in disaster mitigation programs, lamented that the spate of typhoons disrupted the flow of trade and commerce, requiring immediate and sustained government intervention.

Gordon, also Philippine National Red Cross chair, said unutilized lots and empty buildings of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) and other government agencies can be used by entrepreneurs “so they can get back to business in time for the Christmas season.”

He described as “good spots” Peza’s buildings in Laguna, especially those along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), because they are accessible to traders.


Gordon eyes use of idle gov’t lots for rehab
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:59:00 10/24/2009
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20091024-231987/Gordon-eyes-use-of-idle-govt-lots-for-rehab