Manila:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on local government units (LGUs) to ensure the transparent and proper use of government funds allocated for disaster rehabilitation and recovery, emphasizing that there is "no room for corruption."
According to Philippines News Agency, during the ceremonial turnover of Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Assistance Program (DRRAP) funds at Malacañan Palace, Marcos highlighted that the PHP8.645 billion assistance for 306 disaster-affected LGUs is meant strictly for rebuilding communities and restoring livelihoods. He asserted that these funds are public money intended for Filipinos affected by disasters and should not be used for personal gain.
Marcos further emphasized that corruption, including ghost projects, kickbacks, and substandard rehabilitation projects, will not be tolerated. He warned that any attempts to profit from the suffering of Filipinos will be met with legal consequences. He urged LGUs to use the funds wisely and to serve the public with honesty and diligence.
The national government, according to Marcos, remains committed to aiding LGUs in disaster recovery through financial support and closer coordination to meet the actual needs of affected areas. He noted that the government has approved PHP8.645 billion in assistance for 306 LGUs affected by disasters from 2024 to 2026. Of this, PHP6 billion has already been released, with the second tranche of over PHP2.5 billion being distributed.
Marcos clarified that the assistance is distributed based on community needs, without political bias. He stated the DRRAP allows LGUs to identify and prioritize interventions tailored to their specific circumstances. He also acknowledged the need to streamline the fund processing, reducing the time from eight to 11 months to four to six months.
To enhance disaster response, Marcos urged local officials to improve their reporting of disaster impacts to national agencies to ensure timely and appropriate assistance. The PHP8.645-billion allocation supports recovery from typhoons, earthquakes, and the Kanlaon Volcano eruption from 2024 to 2026. Marcos reiterated the government's commitment to working with LGUs to make communities more resilient against future calamities.
