DBM approves budget for repair of typhoon-damaged schools in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Months after typhoon Yolanda damaged thousands of residences and infrastructure, including schools all over the Visayas, the Department of Budget and Management has reportedly approved the inclusion of damaged state colleges and universities in Cebu in their budget for immediate repair.

Pasig City Representative Roman Romulo, chairman of the House committee on higher education and technical education, said that during their meetings, all presidents of the different schools, universities and colleges have submitted the needed budget in the repair of their schools.

However, the Department of Public Works and Highways, which will be implementing the repair, will be conducting further assessment based on the total cost submitted by the president of different schools.

Cebu fourth district Representative Benhur Salimbangon said he asked the DBM and the DPWH, to include the state colleges and universities in his district.

Majority of the towns and city in the fourth district were greatly affected by the super typhoon. 

As an example, Salimbangon said that the Cebu Normal University extension in Medellin town and Cebu Technological University in Daanbantayan town were badly damaged.

Salimbangon stressed on the importance of repairing the damaged schools, not only in his district, but in all other areas, before classes start by June.

Roman agreed with Salimbangon and said that his committee is closely working with DBM and DPWH.

Meanwhile, Salimbangon said various non-government organizations continue to support rehabilitation programs of the government in his district.

Salimbangon said that the aid of the NGOs is very important while waiting for funds from the national government. — (FREEMAN)