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By Rolynda Jonathan
The Bopha Relief Committee has put infrastructure relief efforts on hold pending the completion of homes of typhoon victims in the eastern side of Babeldaob, Palau’s main island and two outlying states.
Vice President and Bopha Catastrophe Relief Coordinator Antonio “Tony” Bells says efforts to repair and rebuild damages on public infrastructure such as public schools, office buildings and other public offices has been delayed due to lack of funding.
However some projects have been completed such as traditional piers, but the remaining projects will be put on hold until residential projects is fully complete.
Bells says it’s critical that residential projects are completed first in order to allow Bopha victims to return home.
He further revealed that President Remengesau Jr. at the meantime is proposing $5-$10 million for relief efforts.
Damages, according to Bells have reached $5 million in costs.