President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the immediate release of ₱321 million in financial assistance to 34 provinces and eight cities affected by Tropical Storm Basyang and the shear line.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto confirmed the funds will go directly to local government units (LGUs) to aid displaced families and repair damaged infrastructure.
Marcos acknowledged that recent weather disturbances caused “displacement of a significant number of people, casualties and damage to infrastructure.” The Office of Civil Defense reported at least 12 fatalities from the storm.
Recto emphasized:
“The assistance would allow these communities to recover as expeditiously as possible from the recent weather events. It’s part of the President’s initiatives to support LGUs and their constituents.”
LGUs are required to submit utilization reports to ensure accountability. Marcos also met with governors of the hardest-hit areas, ordering river clearing and flood mitigation measures to reduce future risks.
The move underscores the administration’s commitment to fast-track recovery while strengthening disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities.