BARMM secures ₱5B to rebuild conflict-hit areas

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 24) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved the release of ₱5 billion to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for the rehabilitation of conflict-affected communities, including those in Marawi City.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DBM said the release of the fund is in accordance with Republic Act 11054 which states that the national government must provide the special development fund with ₱5 billion every year for a period of 10 years.

The budget is intended for the “rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development” of communities in the region.

“We hope that BARMM takes advantage of this funding by fully utilizing it to help those in need, and to improve areas that need further development,” DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said.

The DBM said the most recent conflict recorded was the five-month siege of Marawi City in 2017.

It noted that the war resulted in ₱17 billion in property damage and lost opportunities.

The Task Force Bangon Marawi, which is leading the rehabilitation efforts, previously said the city needed at least ₱49.8 billion to fund its restoration.