A total of 36 local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao are set to receive P21.5 million worth of financial aid from the Makati City government as part of its efforts in helping the localities recover from the devastation brought about by earthquakes and severe flooding in 2023.

Mayor Abby Binay

Makati City Mayor Abby Binay said the Makati City Council has approved the allocation of amounts ranging from P250,000 to P1 million for each LGU, depending on the severity of the damage incurred.

“We understand the challenges faced by these LGUs, especially during these difficult times. We hope that the financial assistance from the city will help them recover and rebuild their communities,” Binay said.

The Philippine Disaster Reduction and Management Act of 2010 states that the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council allows the transfer of funds to support other local government units upon its recommendation.

Based on the guidelines for financial assistance enacted through City Ordinance No. 2017-006, nine LGUs will receive P1 million each, while the rest will be distributed as follows: P750,000 to seven LGUs; P500,000 to nine LGUs, and 250,000 to 11 LGUs.  

The city has allocated a total of P8,750,000 for 17 municipalities of Northern Samar and Eastern Samar severely affected by the combined effects of shear line and low pressure area last November. These are Lapinig, Catarman, Lope de Vega, San Roque, Las Navas, Rosario, Catubig, Pambujan, Palapag, Mondragon, Laoang, Silvino Lobos, and Bobon of Northern Samar, and  Arteche, Dolores, Jipapad, and Oras of Eastern Samar.

For 18 localities in Surigao del Sur severely affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake last Dec. 2, the city has allocated P12,500,000. These are Barobo, Bayabas, Bislig, Cagwait, Carmen, Carrascal, Cortes, Hinatuan, Lanuza, Lianga, Lingig, Madrid, Marihatag, San Agustin, San Miguel, Tagbina, Tago, and Tandag.

Meanwhile, Glan in Sarangani Province that was affected by the 6.8 magnitude earthquake last Nov. 17 will also receive P250,000.

The city government explained that the financial assistance will be sourced from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund – Quick Response Fund of the approved Executive Budget for calendar year 2023.

Other assistance

Aside from the financial assistance, Binay said Makati plans to to include satellite imaging service as an additional form of assistance to selected disaster-stricken LGUs.

"It will be useful in disaster management, particularly in the assessment of vulnerabilities and risks and the extent and severity of damage in the affected area," Binay explained.

She also called on fellow mayors to “invest in climate-proof, disaster-ready, and resilient infrastructure as they rebuild.”

Among the 36 LGUs that will receive the aid, six of them are sister-municipalities of the city.

“We make no distinction in extending assistance to fellow LGUs in need. We are always willing to share our resources whenever possible to help our fellow Filipinos get back on their feet,” the mayor stressed.