Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 27) – President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a law ordering the financial compensation for those who lost their lives and whose properties were destroyed during the Marawi siege in 2017.
Republic Act 11696, also known as the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, says owners of “residential, cultural, commercial structures and other properties” in Marawi’s main and other affected areas are entitled to tax-free compensation.
It also says the government will compensate owners of private properties demolished prior the implementation of the Marawi Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Program (MRRRP).
RA 11696 likewise creates the Marawi Compensation Board, a nine-member independent and quasi-judicial body that will oversee the payouts to rightful claimants.
“Within thirty (30) days after the Board has approved with finality each eligible claim pending before it and after due publication of such legitimate claim, the award of monetary compensation shall take effect,” it further stated.
Any pending appeal filed by an aggrieved claimant must be resolved by the body not later than sixty days before it becomes functus officio, added the law.
The President will appoint a board chairperson and eight members – with organizations of traditional leaders, professionals, the Ulama, and civil society organizations allowed to submit nominations.
The board’s operating budget will be sourced from the current year’s appropriations of the contingent fund, provided it won’t exceed ₱50 million annually.
The siege refers to the five-month armed conflict between government security forces and terrorist groups in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur that began on May 23, 2017.
READ: President Rodrigo Duterte has approved a measure giving monetary compensation to victims of the Marawi siege, according to acting presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar. (2/2) https://t.co/Ni4v3zQWgA pic.twitter.com/0nHxfmk3hK
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) April 27, 2022
