President Duterte has signed into law a measure providing individuals and businesses affected by the Marawi Siege compensation for their loss during the battle.

In signing Republic Act No. 11696 or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, Duterte cited that the State shall fulfill its obligations under the internal human rights and humanitarian laws and recognize the basic principles of the right to remedy and reparation for victims of gross human rights violations.

The law also stated that the state is obligated to compensate those affected economically, socially, and culturally.

The 24 main areas in Marawi that were tagged as affected are the following: Lumbac Madaya, South Madaya, Raya Madaya 1 and 2, Sabalo Amanao, Sabala Amanao Proper, Tolali, Daguduban, Norhaya Village, Banggolo Poblacion, Bubong Madaya, Lilod Madaya, Dansalan, Datu sa Dansalan, Sangkay Dansalan, Moncado Colony, Moncado Kadilingan, Marinaut West and East, Kapantaran, Wawalayan Marinaut, Lumbac Marinaut, Tuca Marinaut and Data Dagu.

Meanwhile, other affected areas are the following: Saduc Proper, Panggao Saduc, Raya Saduc, Lilod Saduc, Datu Saber, Bangon, Fort and Wawalayan Caloocan.

According to the measure, any owner of a residential, cultural, or commercial structure and other properties in the affected areas are qualified to get compensation tax-free.

If the beneficiary is already dead or is presumed dead, their legal heir is entitled to be compensated.

The government must also compensate the owners of private properties that will be demolished due to the implementation of the Marawi Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Program.

Under the law, which was signed on April 13 and obtained by the media on April 27, a quasi-judicial body called the Marawi Compensation Board shall be created to process the compensation applications, among others.

The period of filing of claims shall be filed within a year after the board has been duly organized.