CLIMATE ADAPTATION. Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda (right) receives the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the ceremonial turnover of a PHP118.86 million grant, at the President’s Hall of Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday (Nov. 29, 2023). In a statement, Agda pledged to use the fund to address the city’s flooding problem. (Photo courtesy of Borongan City government)

MANILA — In a significant step towards fortifying its resilience against floods, Borongan City is set to utilize the P118.86 million grant received from the People’s Survival Fund (PSF) for comprehensive flood control measures and supporting reforestation initiatives.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally led the turnover of the financial grant to Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda in a ceremony held at Malacañang Palace on Wednesday (29 Nov 2023).

The allocated funds are earmarked for the “Reinforcement of Lo-om River Flood Protection System and Redevelopment for Resilient Communities and Livelihood” project, a proposal presented by the city government to the PSF in July. The project aims to enhance flood control measures along the Lo-om River and contribute to reforestation efforts in the region.

Borongan City Mayor Agda expressed gratitude for the approval and subsequent turnover of the fund, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing the city’s resilience in the face of environmental challenges, particularly floods.

Prior to approval, the city’s proposal underwent meticulous assessments by the PSF board secretariat and board member agencies to ensure alignment with climate-responsive standards. Witnessing the ceremonial turnover were notable figures including Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, and Climate Change Commission Commissioner Rachel Anne Herrera.

Established by Republic Act 10174, the PSF aims to provide financial support to local government units for implementing climate change adaptation projects. Borongan City’s strategic allocation of these funds reflects a proactive approach to address environmental concerns and enhance the overall well-being of its communities.

(I Am/MNM)