DBM approves release of P1 billion for Marawi siege compensation

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Sunday approved the issuance of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to P1 billion to cover the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation under the Fiscal Year 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The agency said that following the SARO, 362 victims will receive monetary compensation under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF).

Under Special Provision No. 3 of the NDRRMF in the Fiscal Year 2023 GAA, the initial appropriation shall be used to compensate:

1. Any lawful owner of residential, cultural, commercial structures and other properties in Marawi's Main Affected Areas or Other Affected Areas destroyed or damaged, either totally or partially, on the occasion of the Marawi Siege;
2. Owners of private properties demolished pursuant to the implementation of the Marawi Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Program;
3. The heirs of those who died and are legally presumed dead, in accordance with RA No. 11696 and guidelines to be promulgated by the Marawi Compensation Board.

This also mandates the MCB to determine the monetary compensation and award of the lawful owner based on the Fair Market Value or replacement cost of the total or repair cost of partially damaged structures of the residential, cultural, and commercial properties.

“The rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi has always been a project that is close to my heart," said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

"I am a Maranao by soul and blood, and I feel so much joy and pride seeing Marawi rise again six years after the siege. Seeing my fellow Maranaos overcome that dreadful history with so much strength and resiliency brings warmth to my heart.”

She also thanked President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. for his continued support for Mindanao, which the Maranao people and the people of Mindanao appreciated.

“Indeed, there is still a lot more to do. But let this milestone serve as a reminder to all of us to shape a future moving forward, steered by our united commitment to achieve lasting peace and long-term prosperity,” Pangandaman added. — DVM, GMA Integrated News