U.S. Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg (4th from left) and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Gloria D. Steele (extreme left) led the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Western Mindanao LGU leaders for the implementation of USAID’s Enhancing Governance, Accountability and Engagement (ENGAGE) Project.

ENGAGE is a five-year project that seeks to improve peace and stability in six conflict-affected areas of Mindanao by promoting good governance and civic engagement. The project will expand the capability of local government units to improve the delivery of basic services while ensuring accountability and transparency.

In photo are (from L-R) Councilor Jenessa Tubungbanua representing Mayor Cherrylyn Santos-Akbar for Isabela, Lamitan City Mayor Rosita Furigay, Mindanao Development Authority Chairperson Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, Zamboanga City Representative Celso Lobregat, Jolo, Sulu Mayor Hussin Amin and Provincial Board Member Abduradzmezer Burahan representing Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan.