DBM releases P875M to replenish DSWD’s QRF

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Thursday announced the release of additional funds to augment the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) budget for its response and relief efforts during calamities.

In a statement, the DBM said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the release of P875 million to replenish the Quick Response Fund (QRF) of the DSWD.

"Alam po natin na mahalaga ang papel ng DSWD sa pag-alalay at pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan lalo’t sunud-sunod po ang nangyaring mga kalamidad. Kaya nung nag-request po sila na i-replenish ang kanilang QRF, agad po natin 'yang tinugunan bilang pagsunod din po sa direktiba ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na siguruhing may nakaantabay tayong pondo para sa anumang sakuna," said Pangandaman.

(We know the importance of the role of the DSWD in assisting our fellow countrymen’s needs, especially amid the recent calamities. That’s why when they requested a replenishment of their QRF, we immediately acted on it in adherence with the directive of President Bongbong Marcos to ensure we have standby funds to respond to disasters.)

The released amount is chargeable against the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) Fund under the Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Under the 2024 GAA, the NDRRM Fund may be used as an additional funding source for the QRF of implementing agencies concerned when its balance reaches 50%, subject to the approval of the DBM.

As of October 30, 2024, the DBM said the DSWD's available QRF balance has reached below the 50% threshold at P557.77 million or 31.87% of its current appropriations.

The Budget Department said the approval of DSWD’s request is crucial to enable prompt delivery of response and early recovery services and intervention under the Disaster Response and Management Program. 

The DBM said the requested replenishment is particularly intended for the procurement of various Family Food Packs and Non-Food Items for the stockpiling of relief resources in DSWD warehouses and the implementation of Cash for Work for the affected families of Typhoon Julian in Region I.

–VAL, GMA Integrated News