Manila: The government has sufficient funds to respond to communities affected by Super Typhoon ‘Nando’ (international name: Ragasa), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman assured on Monday. In a statement, Pangandaman said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered immediate support for Filipinos affected by Nando, as well as the frontline agencies working to ensure they are promptly assisted.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangandaman highlighted that the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) currently holds PHP8.633 billion, which is allocated for aid, relief, rehabilitation, and repair of permanent structures in calamity-hit areas. This fund is designated to provide the necessary financial resources to facilitate recovery efforts in the impacted regions.

Frontline agencies, including the Departments of Public Works and Highway, Education, Social Welfare and Development, Agriculture, and National Defense-Office of Civil Defense, may also utilize their Quick Response Funds (QRFs) for immediate disaster operations. Unlike the NDRRMF, QRFs can be employed without recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council or presidential approval. Additionally, replenishment of these funds can be requested once at least 50 percent of the allocation is utilized.

“Our citizens should not worry. We have sufficient funds, and the DBM will ensure quick processing as long as documents are complete and in order,” Pangandaman stated. She reassured the public of the government’s preparedness and commitment to expedite financial aid and resources to those affected by the typhoon. Pangandaman also urged all government agencies to make certain that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries promptly to facilitate timely relief and recovery efforts.