Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure swift and sufficient assistance to communities affected by calamities, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman has approved the release of P716.15 million to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to replenish its Fiscal Year 2025 Quick Response Fund (QRF).
“Sabi nga po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, disaster response must always be fast, compassionate, and well-coordinated. This replenishment helps guarantee the DSWD can continue to provide food, shelter, and cash aid to families when they need it most,” said Secretary Pangandaman.
The replenishment will support the procurement and stockpiling of Family Food Packs (FFPs) and Non-Food Items (NFIs) in DSWD warehouses to around 424,681 families, and the provision of Emergency Cash Transfers (ECT) to around 41,502 families affected by the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclones “Mirasol,” “Nando,” and “Opong” in Regions V, IV-B, and II.
In addition, part of the allocation will cover transport and delivery services, stand-by funds for regional offices, and other logistical support necessary for the timely and effective delivery of relief goods and emergency assistance.
The amount will be charged against the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) Fund under the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act (Republic Act No. 12116).
“When disasters strike, hindi po dapat maghintay ang ating mga kababayan sa tulong. Sinisiguro po ng ating Quick Response Fund na agaran nating naibabalik ang pag-asa at pagbangon ng bawat Pamilyang Pilipino,” Secretary Amenah ended.
The Quick Response Fund serves as a stand-by fund that agencies like the DSWD can immediately tap for relief and rehabilitation programs during calamities. It may later be replenished from the NDRRM Fund once the balance reaches 50 percent, subject to guidelines set by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the DBM.
Through timely fund releases, the DBM continues to guarantee that the government’s disaster response efforts remain proactive, efficient, and centered on the welfare of every Filipino. (DBM)
