The local government of Makati disclosed that it is set to extend financial assistance amounting to P21.5 million to 36 local government units in Mindanao devastated by strong earthquakes and severe flooding late last year.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay said that the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati has approved the allocation of amounts ranging from P250,000 to P1 million for each LGU, depending on the severity of the damage incurred.

“We understand the challenges faced by these LGUs, especially during these difficult times. We hope that the financial assistance from the city will help them recover and rebuild their communities,” Binay said.

The mayor also urged fellow mayors throughout the country to “invest in climate-proof, disaster-ready and resilient infrastructure as they rebuild.”

She also cited that only five out of the 36 LGUs are sister-municipalities of Makati.

“We make no distinction in extending assistance to fellow LGUs in need. We are always willing to share our resources whenever possible to help our fellow Filipinos get back on their feet,” Binay said.

The mayor revealed plans of the city to include satellite imaging service as an additional form of assistance for selected disaster-stricken LGUs which is seen to be useful in disaster management, particularly in the assessment of vulnerabilities and risks and the extent and severity of damage in the affected area.

Based on the guidelines for financial assistance enacted through City Ordinance 2017-006, nine LGUs will receive P1 million each, while P750,000 will be allotted for seven LGUs; P500,000 for nine LGUs and P250,000 for 11 LGUs.

The city has earmarked a total of P8,750,000 for 17 municipalities of Northern Samar and Eastern Samar severely inundated due to the combined effects of shear line and low pressure area last November.

These are Lapinig, Catarman, Lope de Vega, San Roque, Las Navas, Rosario, Catubig, Pambujan, Palapag, Mondragon, Laoang, Silvino Lobos, and Bobon of Northern Samar, and  Arteche, Dolores, Jipapad and Oras of Eastern Samar.

For 18 localities in Surigao del Sur severely affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake last 2 December 2023, the city has allocated P12,500,000. These are Barobo, Bayabas, Bislig, Cagwait, Carmen, Carrascal, Cortes, Hinatuan, Lanuza, Lianga, Lingig, Madrid, Marihatag, San Agustin, San Miguel, Tagbina, Tago and Tandag.

Meantime, the municipality of Glan in Sarangani Province that was affected by the 6.8 magnitude earthquake last 17 November will also receive P250,000.

The financial assistance will be sourced from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund-Quick Response Fund of the approved Executive Budget for calendar year 2023.