Go asks government to replenish LGU calamity funds

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has renewed his appeal to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to consider augmenting the calamity fund of local government units (LGUs) severely hit by Super Typhoon Rolly recently.

He urged the agency to replenish the calamity funds in typhoon-hit areas, particularly in Regions IV-A, IV-B and V, by augmenting their local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund equivalent to one percent of their respective Internal Revenue Allotments.

“I reiterate my appeal to the DBM to study the provision of additional funding for LGUs most affected by Typhoon Rolly. Even if you replenish at least one percent, it will be a big help. This fund can do a lot to meet the needs of their communities, especially since their previous funds have been depleted due to the pandemic, ” Go said.

His appeal came after the affected LGUs called for assistance as their calamity funds have been exhausted in the fight against COVID-19 and the string of typhoons that hit the country the past months.

Go suggested that the executive department also explore the possibility of incremental provision of additional funds to severely affected LGUs depending on the extent of the needs of communities and on the availability of funds.

He earlier said that providing additional financial assistance to the typhoon-hit LGUs would be a big help for them in purchasing food products and other essential items for affected constituents.