22 July 2009 – Outgoing USAID Mission Director to the Philippines Jon D. Lindborg called on Ambassador Willy C. Gaa and presented a USAID token as symbol of a “productive and deep relationship between the Philippines and the United States beyond development assistance.” The Philippines is USAID’s development partner for over four (4) decades. Innovative program  partnerships with USAID include initiatives in education, health, energy, environment, governance, and peace & development. Ambassador Gaa welcomed Mr. Lindborg’s assurance that USAID will continue its assistance on the Mindanao peace and development program as well as in pursuing high-impact programs such as mobilizing remittances for development. END.