By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Friday vowed to provide support to the newly created Office of the Presidential Adviser for Marawi Rehabilitation and Development (OPAMRD).
This, as Pangandaman commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for establishing the office to accelerate the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
“As a daughter of Mindanao and a Maranao, the plight of Marawi has always been close to my heart. Nakita ko po ang pinsala sa Marawi at ramdam ko ang hinanakit ng ating mga kababayan doon,” she said in a statement.
“That’s why, when I learned about the OPAMRD, I felt a deep sense of hope and excitement. There has never been a unifying effort like this—one that aligns resources and avoids duplication. Ito na po ang pinakamabisang hakbang sa mas inklusibo at cohesive na recovery para sa Marawi,” Pangandaman added.
By virtue of Executive Order 78, the OPAMRD is tasked to advise the President on all matters regarding the formulation and implementation of policies, plans, and programs of the government toward the rehabilitation, development, and restoration of peace in Marawi City and other affected localities.
The OPAMRD is also mandated to oversee, monitor, coordinate and harmonize strategies, programs, activities, and projects of agencies in charge of the recovery efforts in Marawi.
Pangandaman said the DBM is ready to assist the OPAMRD for the immediate rehabilitation of the conflict-hit city.
She said her office would work harder to ensure the effective allocation of resources for projects aimed at restoring “the dignity and vibrancy of the Maranao people.”
“This is about healing and unity in the most efficient way. Through the OPAMRD, we are harmonizing efforts across government lines, engag[ing] local communities, and reigniting the spirit of Marawi which has been known for its culture, resilience, and contribution to Mindanao’s tapestry,” she said.
The funding requirements for the initial implementation of EO 78 will be taken from the current and available appropriations of the Office of the President (OP) and other sources that may be determined by the DBM.
The budget for the continued implementation will be included in the OP’s budget proposal, subject to the usual budget preparation process.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the OPAMRD will report to the President bi-annually on the execution of its duties and the utilization of its resources.
