P40-B calamity funds still untapped

THE Philippine government has yet to tap its disaster‑response funds this year, leaving P40.15 billion unspent as of end‑January, according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

In its latest National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) report, the DBM showed no disbursements from P23.49 billion for the NDRRMF, P15.33 billion for the Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Assistance Program, and P1.32 billion for the People’s Survival Fund (PSF).

The PSF budget reflects P1 billion from the 2026 budget plus continuing appropriations from the prior year.

Last year, calamity funds released totaled P20.68 billion, with P322.86 million left undisbursed.

NDRRMF is meant for aid, relief and rehabilitation services to areas affected by human-induced and natural calamities, as well as the repair and reconstruction of permanent structures, including other capital expenditures for disaster operation, and rehabilitation activities.

Meanwhile, the annual PSF is intended for local government units and accredited local/community organizations to implement climate change adaptation projects. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante