To expedite aid to areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the government may tap unprogrammed funds if existing disaster funds prove insufficient, said DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.
Following President Marcos’ directive, Pangandaman confirmed that the 2024 national budget includes P731.448 billion in unprogrammed funds, available if there’s excess revenue or funds from loans and grants.
As of October 24, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) has about PHP 1.98 billion remaining, with plans to replenish quick-response funds (QRF) for key agencies.
This includes allocations of P1 billion for the Department of Public Works and Highways, P25 million for the Philippine National Police, and P37.5 million for the Office of Civil Defense.
Marcos assured storm victims that aid will reach them by land, air, and sea, and that efforts are underway to establish a continuous “conveyor belt of aid.”
Source: PhilNews24 | October 26, 2024
