Canada grants P700 M to Philippines, no word on Canada dumping

By Anna Marie Kapunan

Quezon City, Philippines (Erne 17, 2016) — Thank you Canada! The grant that your citizens gave to the Philippines will surely help those who were affected by Typhoon Haiyan. As you know, until now, people have not yet recovered from the devastation. Many are still homeless and your grant will go a long way to help in the reconstruction efforts.

I do hope this will not bar any talks or efforts from your end to help in the re exportation of the garbage dumped in the Philippines two years ago. There are 76 more container vans of garbage left in Subic Port, waiting for your country’s decision on when it will be picked up.

This is a welcome development for us. We know how the new administration led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is sincere with his efforts in climate change. You see, Typhoon Haiyan will not be the last super typhoon to wreak havoc in our country. There will be more. Your funds and grants are a welcome support to a third world country like us. But, concrete action will be more appreciated.

As the New Year starts, I hope Canada and Philippines will set a history to finally stop transboundary movement of waste. Taking back the garbage will set a wonderful precedent to a history that I look forward to.