Photo from PNA
NEWS

BBM revitalizes Marawi rehab

Richbon Quevedo

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has created the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Marawi Rehabilitation and Development (OPAMRD) to oversee the rehabilitation of Marawi City and the surrounding areas.

The establishment of the OPAMRD was formalized through Executive Order 78, with the primary mandate of advising the President on the formulation of policies, plans, and programs aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding Marawi.

One of its key responsibilities is to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) in the region to ensure the proper implementation of all rehabilitation programs, activities, and projects (PAP).

Additionally, the OPAMRD is tasked with submitting bi-annual reports to the Office of the President, through the Office of the Executive Secretary and OSAP, detailing the progress of the rehabilitation initiatives.

The creation of the OPAMRD follows the initial work of Task Force Bangon Marawi, which was formed in 2017 to lead in the recovery and reconstruction efforts after the city was severely impacted by the five-month conflict between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Islamic State-affiliated militants.

The battle, which began in May 2017, resulted in widespread devastation and displaced nearly 400,000 residents.

Meanwhile, Marcos has assured the public that several key infrastructure projects in Davao will be completed on schedule.

On Thursday, the President expressed anticipation for the upcoming inauguration of the Tagum City Bypass Road and the Island Garden City of Samal Circumferential Road.

“They told me it will be finished in 2026, but I wish it were sooner,” he said, highlighting the importance of these developments.