Shari Villarosa, US Department of State Office Director for Philippines visits Mindanao

Shari Villarosa, Office Director of Philippines Malaysia Brunei Singapore Affairs from the US Department of State visited the Philippines from January 10-16. In addition to several meetings with senior Philippine diplomatic, defense, and economic officials -- as well as attending the Manila Overseas Press Club's briefing and dinner with President Macapagal-Arroyo at Malacanang Palace -- Ms. Villarosa traveled to Mindanao for three days. In Mindanao, she visited with several agricultural production and export ventures connected with Unifrutti, Del Monte, and Chiquita. Villarosa toured a banana plantation in Datu Paglas, Mindanao -- where former MILF rebels now work. The plantation is a positive showcase for how livelihood opportunities end violence and bring development and improved quality of life in conflict-affected areas.