Senate resolution urges gov't to secure funds for earthquake response

MANILA, Philippines — A resolution urging the government to ensure enough funds for the recovery and rehabilitation of the earthquake-struck areas in Mindanao was filed in the Senate on Monday.

Proposed by Sen. Joel Villanueva, Senate Resolution No. 447 calls on the national government to “take all necessary measures to ensure the availability of adequate funding” to aid the communities affected by the magnitude 7.8 quake last June 8.

“The magnitude of the destruction and the scale of rehabilitation and reconstruction required may exceed currently available resources, thereby necessitating additional government support to ensure a timely, comprehensive, and sustainable recovery effort,” Villanueva said in the resolution.

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READ: Mindanao earthquake death toll rises to 65, says OCD

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The senator also noted the role of Mindanao in several sectors, which have been stunted by the disaster.

“Prolonged disruptions to agricultural production, fisheries, transportation networks, logistics systems, power infrastructure, and commercial activity in Mindanao may have significant consequences for food supply, prices of basic commodities, and overall economic activity nationwide,” Villanueva explained.

He continued: “Beyond the immediate humanitarian response, substantial resources will be required to restore damaged infrastructure, rehabilitate schools and hospitals, rebuild homes and communities, revive local economies, and support the recovery of affected families, workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and businesses.”

The earthquake that hit Sarangani was felt in several parts of Mindanao, leading to 65 deaths, 36 missing, and 1,400 injured from Davao Region and Soccsksargen, according to the Office of Civil Defense.

It also reported that the quake has affected 624,000 individuals across 432 barangays, and the damage to infrastructures is estimated to be around P1.13 billion so far. /mr

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HELP MINDANAO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

The Inquirer Foundation is calling for support for communities devastated by the recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao.

In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, the foundation is amplifying appeals for food, clean water and other critical assistance for affected families.

Donors may send contributions directly to the Philippine Red Cross through its official transfer channels, the complete list is available on the PRC’s Facebook page.

The Philippine Red Cross has activated its emergency fund campaign and deployed teams on the ground to provide medical services, distribute relief goods and extend psychosocial support to affected families.