FOR Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) Chairman Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, leading the “massive” rehabilitation of the country’s only Islamic city is both daunting but fulfilling.

Secretary Del Rosario, who also heads the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), stressed he was “honored” to have been tapped by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to lead the rehabilitation.

“Spearheading Marawi’s rehabilitation after the 2017 siege was truly challenging. However, it brought me a sense of fulfillment having accomplished such a ‘Herculean’ task,” he stressed.

“The first two years may have been the most challenging period – I had to learn how to muster all the patience I ever could and remain determined because, at the end of the day, the rehabilitation of Marawi City is not about me – it’s about you and the next generation of Maranaws. Doon ko itinuon ang direksyon ng proyektong ito, maging ngayon na matatapos na ang aking termino bilang (That is where I focused the direction of the project, even until now as I am at the end of my term as) TFBM chairman,” he added.

Secretary Del Rosario thanked those who supported him in his journey as the task force chief, saying, “Thank you for all your support, patience, and cooperation. The TFBM would not have done it without the support of the local government, the implementing agencies, partner organizations, and other stakeholders, most especially our Maranaw brothers and sisters.”

In a recent thanksgiving program held at the Marawi City Hall, local government, traditional and sectoral leaders, including internally displaced persons, and other stakeholders expressed their appreciation to Secretary Del Rosario for his significant contributions in rebuilding Marawi following the 2017 siege.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra, Marawi Sultanate League Chairman Sultan Nasser Sampaco, and other officials gave their messages of gratitude, saying Sec. Del Rosario would always be a part of the city’s history for “his crucial role in helping restore its former glory.”

“In the six years that I have worked alongside Secretary Del Rosario, nakita ko po ang lahat ng sakripisyo niya, lalo na’t hindi lamang po Marawi City ang hinawakan niya, he was also leading a new and huge department. Lahat po nawa ng nagawa niyo ay maging ehemplo o ipagpatuloy ng susunod na administrasyon,” Mayor Gandamra said.

Sultan Sampaco likewise praised Del Rosario for his “satisfying performance” as the DHSUD secretary and TFBM chief.

“The honoree is a notable gentleman whose sterling records of achievement and contributions to our country… He performed his mandate with loyalty, courage, dignity, and honor – setting a good example to those under his command as TFBM chairman and DHSUD secretary,” he said.

Secretary Del Rosario was in Marawi City last week to again assess the latest developments and ensure the finishing touches on the city’s rebuilding process, just a few days before the new administration comes in.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jun I. Legaspi