Gatchalian proposes fund for calamity-hit communities

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is proposing the creation of a "Build Back Better Fund" to aid communities devastated by recent calamities, particularly earthquakes.

This fund would be carved out of the existing Local Government Support Fund and potentially from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund and the contingency fund.

The initiative aims to accelerate recovery and reconstruction by providing resources for affected individuals to rebuild their homes, including those in Bogo City in Cebu.

The "Build Back Better Fund" will not be a new budget item but will involve new criteria for utilizing existing resources to allow for housing subsidy and reconstruction support.

Gatchalian highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that many earthquake victims are still unable to return home without assistance.

He acknowledged public trust issues with the Department of Public Works and Highways but expressed confidence in the agency's leadership implementing reforms.