2 World Bank-funded projects get Neda approval

The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) board has approved two World Bank-funded projects on health care and transport connectivity which President Marcos said would have a lasting impact on the country. The five-year P27.92-billion Health System Resilience Project of the Department of Health, according to the Neda website, is aimed at “strengthening local health systems and pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response; and maximizing return of investment through nationwide technical assistance.” The $360-billion Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project of the Department of Public Works and Highways, on the other hand, is seen to improve transport services in the Cagayan de Oro-Davao-General Santos corridor. The project, targeted for completion in 2030, includes the upgrading of five local roads spanning 87.1 kilometers and a 428.2-km highway, as well as climate-resilient transport asset management, and road safety enhancements. —JULIE M. AURELIO