Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 8) — Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Sunday approved the release of ₱1 billion to cover compensation for at least 300 Marawi siege victims.
In a statement, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Pangandaman approved the issuance of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) to cover the compensation listed under the Fiscal Year 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“The rehabilitation and recovery of Marawi has always been a project that is close to my heart,” she said.
“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,” she added.
The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) said 362 victims will receive monetary compensation under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF).
Special Provision No. 3 of the NDRRMF in the 2023 GAA states that the initial appropriation shall be used for the compensation to:
1. Owners 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, during 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 legally presumed dead, in accordance with RA No. 11696 and guidelines to be promulgated by the board.
According to the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, or RA No. 116964, the board will facilitate the tax-free payment of compensation or reparations to qualified individuals whose properties and possessions were lost or destroyed due to the siege.
Some 47 civilians were killed during the 2017 conflict, with the total damage estimated at ₱18.23 billion.
READ: Timeline: The Marawi crisis
The board will also 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.
