DBM releases PHP875M to replenish DSWD's QRF amid storms

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released PHP875 million to replenish the Quick Response Fund (QRF) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman highlighted the importance of DSWD's role in disaster response amid a series of storms, emphasizing the need for standby funds.

With this replenishment, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said that the agency would be able to cover its requirements until early December and produce more than 30,000 family food packs daily at its hubs in Luzon and Cebu.

DSWD has pre-positioned close to a million family food packs in strategic locations across the country but continues to produce and dispatch additional relief materials as needed.

The funds released by DBM will be charged against the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) in this year's GAA, ensuring that DSWD can respond effectively to ongoing calamities.

Should further funding be required due to unforeseen extreme weather conditions or disasters, DSWD is allowed to request another replenishment from DBM once its QRF balance reaches 50% or more.