PORTS AUTHORITY FUNDS PHILIPPINES REPATRIATION

State Owned Enterprise, Solomon Islands Ports Authority, SIPA, has handed over a sum of Six hundred and Four thousand and Two hundred and Fifty dollars [$604,250] to assist in bringing our students from the Philippines.

This contribution will fund accommodation and food for all the students scheduled for the second repatriation flight on 29 September 2020.

Handing over the cheque to the government before the weekend, SIPA Chief Executive Officer Eranda Kotelawala said, “We are happy to provide the full amount of the second repatriation flight, the exact amount requested by the government.”

CEO Eranda said, this is part of our obligation as an SOE and part of our duty to the country, as an important SOE in the country.

“The SIPA board and management discussed the matter and are pleased to assist the government bring back our students home,” he added.

Mr. Eranda underlines that SIPA considers the assistance as part of its duty and care for the country.

Accepting SIPA’s contribution, The Secretary to Prime Minister Dr. Jimmie Rodgers, conveyed the government’s appreciation to the SIPA board, management and team for extending a hand of partnership to bring home our students from Philippines.

“The contribution from SIPA fully funds one of the hotels. It covers quarantine, food, rooms for 10 days and transport to the airport for 144 students,” Rodgers said.

The Solomon Islands Ports Authority or SIPA operates the Ports of Honiara and Noro.

It was established on June 4, 1956, with the primary responsibility of operating and maintain all facilities at the Ports in public interest.

ENDS///.