DBM releases P1.625-B for faster disaster response

To boost the country’s disaster response efforts, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P1.625 billion to replenish the Quick Response Funds (QRFs) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

According to the DBM, P1 billion will go to the DPWH while the remaining P625 million is earmarked for the DSWD. These funds will help both agencies swiftly respond to emergencies and support communities affected by calamities.

The DSWD will use its share to procure family food packs and non-food relief items, enough to assist over 510,000 disaster-hit families.

The DPWH’s allocation marks the second replenishment of its QRF and will be used for rehabilitation and infrastructure repair efforts.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to protect public welfare during natural disasters.

“The DSWD and DPWH are among agencies with built-in QRFs to ensure they can respond immediately during emergencies,” Pangandaman explained. “We understand how critical it is that they have sufficient resources to deliver aid. As long as all required documents are submitted, DBM acts on the request right away.”

She emphasized that the QRF is designed to provide standby funding for immediate relief and recovery, including pre-positioning supplies and equipment in disaster-prone areas.

The DBM also reminded agencies that they may request QRF replenishment once their fund balance falls to 50 percent, ensuring sustained capability to respond to emergencies throughout the year.