An online resource tool for scrutinizing ODA-funded projects

THE Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism’s three-part report in February on the perils and pitfalls of official development assistance (ODA) was hailed in a newspaper editorial as “a pioneering work” that clarified a lot of questions about the upsides and downsides to the ODA in the Philippines.

A month later, the report written by PCIJ Fellow Roel R. Landingin continues to generate vigorous critical interest and discussion among development workers and donors.

But our work has just started. The story calls attention to the numerous ODA-funded projects that merit continuous scrutiny by more journalists, and unflagging concern among all policymarkers, civil society groups, and citizens.

The story borne of six months’ worth of research also yielded quite a volume of documents that the PCIJ believes could inform further inquiries into the issue by students of Philippine politics and policy.

That is why at last Monday’s well-attended discussion forum on the issues and challenges in following the ODA trail in the country, the PCIJ also unveiled a microsite to serve as an online resource tool for journalists and researchers tracking ODA. The site houses the primary documents used in the story, and features a “do-it-yourself” guide to investigating ODA-funded projects, relevant links, and reading materials on the issue.

Visit the site.