The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is fast-tracking the release of PHP145 million in emergency funds to assist families affected by the series of powerful earthquakes that struck Mindanao. DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the funds will be used for disaster response and rehabilitation initiatives, with up to PHP150,000 in financial assistance to be provided to the families of each reported casualty. The funding will be distributed to several provinces, including Davao Oriental (PHP50 million), Davao de Oro (PHP15 million), Davao del Norte (PHP15 million), Surigao del Sur (PHP15 million), Agusan del Sur (PHP20 million), Surigao del Norte (PHP15 million), and Dinagat Islands (PHP15 million). This new allocation is in addition to the PHP2.341 billion released earlier this month to replenish the Quick Response Funds of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Public Works and Highways.
