Maruariki learns in Manila slums
By Feona Mo’ardi Good

Priscilla Maruariki … went to workshop in Philippines.

THERE’S nothing here like the teeming slums of the vast and crowded Philippines capital, Manila. But a Cook Islander who has just visited them says there are things we can learn.
Priscilla Maruariki, from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, represented the country at a Leadership Enhancement and Advancement Programme organised in Manila by the Asian Development Bank.
On her return, Maruariki, a management accountant, highlighted a fascinating field trip out to the slum areas
The trip was directed by Antonio Melto, the executive director of Gewad Kalinga (Give Care Programme). Melto has created a successful development project involved in building integrated and sustainable communities in 157 depressed areas.
Maruariki said the new housing programme has:
- used bright colours throughout these villages to release a new form of life,
- created clean running water systems,
- and produced its own small education system that has helped get the children off the streets where they were begging.
The programme has also taught people to plant, giving them resources to feed their families.
It was a moving experience for Maruariki, one that she has been able to share with her team back in Rarotonga.
The workshop in Manila focused on Effective Implementation of Strategic Plans in Government.
GOVERNOR
Maruariki said another highlight was the lecture from George Ariyoshi, the Governor of Hawaii 1973-1986. He has been hailed for his leadership and financial management.
Ariyoshi was the first person of Asian descent elected as an American state governor and became Hawaii’s longest-serving governor.
Maruariki said Ariyoshi shared the initiatives and financial skills which enabled him and his staff to take the state from a deficit to a balanced budget and a surplus.
Maruariki said Ariyoshi especially praised staff who worked with him during the low period of the deficit and tight financial management to bring Hawaii out of a recession.
He said without these people his goals would have not been achieved. It is very important to look after the people you work with to bring the best qualities out in them, he stressed.

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