Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has announced the release of PHP1.625 billion to replenish the Quick Response Funds (QRFs) for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM has earmarked PHP1 billion of the total funds for the DPWH, while the remaining PHP625 million will be allocated to the DSWD. The funds for the DSWD's QRF are designated for the procurement of family food packs and non-food items, essential for stockpiling relief resources to aid families affected by disasters.

The PHP1 billion designated for the DPWH will cover the second replenishment of its built-in QRF. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized that the fund allocation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to prioritize the safety and welfare of Filipinos during disasters.

Pangandaman highlighted the importance of having built-in QRFs for government agencies like the DSWD and DPWH, ensuring they can respond promptly during calamities. She stated, "Now, they've requested to have their QRFs replenished, so we released a total of PHP1.625 billion to both agencies."

The DBM explained that the released funds will be utilized for reconstruction and rehabilitation programs, activities, or projects, including the pre-positioning of goods and equipment in calamity-stricken areas. The QRF acts as a standby fund for relief and recovery efforts for individuals in regions impacted by disasters, calamities, epidemics, or complex emergencies. Agencies can request replenishment from the DBM when the QRF balance reaches 50 percent.