Manila: GENERAL SANTOS CITY: Sen. Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan has pledged to fast-track government assistance and relief efforts in communities affected by the recent earthquake in Mindanao, emphasizing the urgent need to support families displaced by the disaster.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pangilinan made the vow Wednesday during a media interview at the sidelines of the distribution of aid at Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish in General Santos City, as stated in a press release from his office Thursday.
The senator expressed his commitment to personally ensure the swift delivery of critical relief, rehabilitation, and recovery assistance to the affected communities. He reassured residents that the national government is not abandoning them and emphasized the importance of collective efforts to overcome challenges.
Pangilinan indicated his intent to directly communicate with the Cabinet secretaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, National Housing Authority, and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development to expedite relief efforts in General Santos City.
The senator facilitated the delivery and distribution of food packs from the DSWD on Wednesday. He has also proposed an additional PHP15 billion in funding for relief, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts in the region, aiming to identify community needs through his visit and meetings with local government officials.
He noted the resolution of the leadership deadlock in the Senate, which allowed the chamber to hold a special session last week. This session resulted in passing a resolution for the immediate release of assistance needed by General Santos City, Sarangani Province, Davao Oriental, and other parts of Mindanao affected by the quake.
The senator further committed to reaching out to key national government agencies to ensure Mindanao receives necessary aid. He plans to address the issue during budget deliberations later this year if the agencies do not deliver the promised assistance.
Mindanao was struck by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake on June 8, which resulted in 78 fatalities, affected 1.5 million people, and caused more than PHP1 billion worth of infrastructure damage.
