Palace creates task force for typhoon rehab efforts

Malacañang is preparing an executive order to define the duties of the Build Back Better Task Force, which aims to expedite the rehabilitation of areas devastated by recent typhoons.

The task force will be supervised by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

Its members will consist of various government departments including Agriculture, Public Works and Highways, Budget and Management, and Social Welfare and Development, along with agencies like the National Irrigation Administration, National Electrification Administration, and National Housing Authority.

The Philippine Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard are designated to provide support to the task force, and local government units are also encouraged to extend assistance.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque stated that the task force will have a distinct chain of command and a direct mandate to manage rehabilitation and recovery efforts, assuring the public that it will not duplicate the functions of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.