MANILA – The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of ₱1 billion to compensate victims of the Marawi siege.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DBM announced that the funds will provide monetary compensation to 574 beneficiaries, specifically covering claims for structural damages and loss of life.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the significance of this financial support in the government’s ongoing efforts to aid those affected by the siege.

“As a daughter of Mindanao, I can say that this ₱1-billion compensation for Marawi siege victims will greatly help our fellow citizens in rebuilding their lives,” Pangandaman stated.

“The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is committed to providing adequate support to affected families, helping them return to normalcy,” she added.

The assistance, aimed at victims of the 2017 Marawi crisis, is part of the government’s broader initiative for recovery and rehabilitation. It is mandated by Republic Act No. 11696, also known as the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022.

The compensation covers claims for both fully and partially damaged structures, as well as for lives lost during the conflict.

Pangandaman approved the Special Allotment Release Order on Tuesday, with the funds to be sourced from the 2024 budget.

ia/mnm