Manila: The government currently has PHP182 billion in available funds to enhance disaster response and rehabilitation efforts, following recent calamities in the country, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian announced. As the chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Gatchalian emphasized the importance of utilizing these funds efficiently to rebuild affected areas and support communities in need.

According to Philippines News Agency, the allocated funds include PHP7 billion from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, PHP6.4 billion from the Quick Response Fund, PHP287 million from the Disaster Response Operations Fund of the Office of Civil Defense, PHP15 billion from the Local Government Support Fund, PHP12 billion Contingent Fund, and PHP141 billion from Unprogrammed Appropriations. These resources are specifically earmarked for strengthening government infrastructure and social programs in the 2025 budget.

Senator Gatchalian stressed that every peso should be directed towards rebuilding lives and restoring communities, ensuring that the nation becomes more resilient to future disasters. Relief operations are presently underway in areas affected by a series of tropical cyclones and a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu province on September 30.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has previously stated that government disaster response must be both immediate and sustained, focusing on helping communities regain stability. He highlighted the importance of quick action and consistent support to alleviate the hardships faced by families impacted by these calamities.

For the proposed 2026 national budget of PHP6.793 trillion, Gatchalian aims to increase allocations for agencies responsible for post-disaster reconstruction. This includes rebuilding classrooms, restoring heritage sites like century-old churches damaged by recent seismic activity, and providing housing for families displaced by disasters.