COTABATO CITY—The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced on May 24, that the Bangsamoro autonomous region will receive a Php5 billion fund to rehabilitate its conflict-ridden communities, including those in Marawi City.
DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman confirmed the approval of the fund, citing Section 2, Article 15 of Republic Act (RA) 11054 or the Bangsamoro Organic Law as the basis for its release.
“Recently, I also approved the Special Allotment Release Order amounting to PHP5 billion for the Special Development Fund of BARMM for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of its conflict-affected communities,” Pangandaman added.
“These are on top of the Php64.8 billion block grant to the Bangsamoro Government in the 2023 Budget,” she added.
RA 11054 mandates the national government to allocate a yearly Php5 billion SDF to the BARMM Government over a period of 10 years for the purpose of rebuilding, rehabilitating, and developing the region’s conflict-affected communities.
According to the plan, the budget allocation will be released by the Bureau of Treasury to the BARMM Government through an authorized government servicing bank, subject to cash programming by the national government.
In May 2017, the lone Islamic City of Marawi in BARMM was severely devastated during a five-month-long siege, resulting in an estimated loss of Php17 billion in both properties and opportunities, according to government estimates.
The Task Force Bangon Marawi, leading the rehabilitation efforts, previously stated that the city requires at least Php49.8 billion for its restoration.
Pangandaman expressed optimism about the BARMM government’s responsible use of the funds to ensure the region’s development.
“We hope that BARMM takes advantage of this funding by fully utilizing it to help those in need, and to improve areas that need further development,” she said.
“In line with President Bongbong Marcos’ directive, the DBM will continue to assist the BARMM, ensuring a smooth transition process and strengthening its communities,” Pangandaman emphasized.
Under the Marcos administration, Php64.76 billion has been allocated for BARMM’s Annual Block Grant, Php5 billion for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of conflict-affected communities, and Php4.59 billion for its share in taxes, fees, and charges collected in the region. (Kasan Usop, Jr./BIO)
