What is FAiTH?

Known for corruption (although not ranked in the world’s most corrupt countries), the Philippine government created a Yolanda-timely website suitably called FAiTH or Foreign Aid Transparency Hub. With every intention to be transparent, the site details ALL (financial and in kind) the foreign aids coming in for disaster assistance.

According to the website, “More than just a repository of data, FAiTH is our way of expressing gratitude to all those who have reached out to the Filipino people at this tragic time – and, knowing as we do that public office is public trust, FAiTH is a reaffirmation of our administration’s commitment to true public service.”

I think it’s great that the government is listing down all the donations in cash and kind but the billion dollar QUESTION is, and I know everyone wants to see it too, where is the itemized breakdown of where the money went? It’s a lot of work to do this but with large amounts being donated, this must be done ASAP and the list should be frequently updated. So… kelan?

Bottom line is that “it is and it should be” beyond just Yolanda. We need to accept that we are a typhoon-stricken country with the average of 19 typhoons passing through in a year. May this website go beyond just putting it up. Make it simple and uncomplicated for everyone to understand.

Trust is definitely earned but it is somehow reassuring that something is being done especially after the pork barrel brouhaha! It’s a handshake of accountability to build new bridges of trust with countries that extended their resources and help to us.

Consider this a challenge for vigilance beyond my viewpoint as a mother. Calling accountants, financial experts, let’s make sure that those numbers are consistent and true. Let’s do everything it takes to prevent another P14 billion ala PDAF from happening.

Have faith and do something!