Lanao del sur: Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Zia Alonto Adiong has filed House Bill (HB) 9887, proposing a PHP15 billion supplemental appropriation for Fiscal Year 2026. This initiative aims to support urgent relief, recovery, rehabilitation, repair, and reconstruction efforts in Southern Mindanao communities affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake on June 8.
According to Philippines News Agency, the bill seeks to bolster the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund to address extensive damage across Regions 11 (Davao) and 12 (Soccsksargen). The disaster caused severe damage to homes, schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, irrigation systems, power facilities, ports, airports, and other vital infrastructure. The proposal also includes direct assistance for displaced families, farmers, fisherfolk, and other vulnerable sectors whose livelihoods were affected.
Recent reports highlight the earthquake's impact, with 47 fatalities, 688 injuries, and 31 individuals still missing. Over 45,000 people remain displaced, and more than 12,600 homes have been damaged. Property damage in General Santos City alone has reached approximately PHP1 billion, with assessments ongoing in other areas. The earthquake has also led to significant agricultural and fisheries losses, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
'Mindanao is reeling from one of the strongest earthquakes in recent memory. Our people need immediate help to rebuild their lives, restore essential services, and recover their livelihoods. This bill delivers the substantial resources required to accelerate relief and long-term rehabilitation,' Adiong stated. He emphasized the personal importance of the bill, expressing solidarity with the affected Mindanao communities.
HB 9887 allocates PHP2 billion each to the Department of Agriculture for irrigation system repairs and assistance to farmers and fisherfolk, and to the Department of Education for school repairs and rehabilitation. PHP1.5 billion each is designated for the Department of Social Welfare and Development for emergency aid and shelter, and the Department of Health for hospital repairs and medical support. PHP2 billion is also earmarked for housing assistance and relocation efforts.
Substantial funding will also be directed to the Department of Public Works and Highways and local government units for infrastructure repairs, as well as allocations for power restoration, educational institutions, and transportation facilities. 'We are making sure that the funding reaches the sectors that matter most to Mindanawons right now,' Adiong affirmed.
The measure mandates transparency through quarterly reporting to Congress and the Commission on Audit, emphasizing coordination with local government units and prioritizing the worst-hit areas. Funds are designated exclusively for earthquake-affected communities and those impacted by aftershocks and related hazards.
A counterpart measure has been filed by Senator Francis Pangilinan to address the pressing needs of all disaster victims. 'The people of Mindanao have shown remarkable resilience. It is now our duty as legislators to match that resilience with decisive action and adequate resources,' Adiong urged, calling for swift passage of the bill to expedite aid delivery.
