President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has strengthened the role of local government units (LGUs) in disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction through the allocation of Php 8.6 billion in financial assistance to 306 LGUs affected by calamities from 2024 to 2026.
The funding, provided under the government’s Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Assistance Program (DRRAP), aims to accelerate the recovery of disaster-hit communities by supporting the repair and reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and the restoration of essential public services.
According to the government, the assistance will cover the rehabilitation of roads, bridges, schools, health facilities, evacuation centers, agricultural areas, and housing units damaged by natural disasters.
Of the total allocation, approximately Php 6 billion has already been released, while the remaining Php 2.5 billion is undergoing processing for distribution to qualified local governments.
Marcos emphasized that local officials play a crucial role in identifying the immediate needs of affected communities and ensuring that rehabilitation programs directly benefit residents.
“LGUs know their people’s struggles and what it takes to help them rebuild. And for this, we spare no expense,” the President said.
He also underscored the administration’s commitment to building communities that are better prepared to withstand future disasters.
“Sama-sama nating itatayo muli ang ating mga komunidad, mas matatag at mas handa, tungo sa isang Bagong Pilipinas, kung saan walang maiiwan at walang mawawalan ng pag-asa,” Marcos added.
The President urged local governments to strengthen disaster preparedness measures, improve damage assessment procedures, and ensure accurate and timely reporting of disaster-related losses.
He stressed that effective coordination between national agencies and LGUs is essential to speeding up the delivery of financial assistance and implementing rehabilitation projects.
The government also aims to restore livelihoods, particularly in agricultural communities where disasters have damaged farms and disrupted economic activities.
The rehabilitation program forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to improve disaster resilience and strengthen the capacity of local governments to respond to emergencies and support long-term community recovery.
Through direct financial assistance and closer national-local coordination, the government seeks to help affected families rebuild their homes, restore access to basic services, and recover from the economic and social impacts of calamities.
Source: Presidential Communications Office (PCO) / PBBM Official
