The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) have released a total of P700 million in financial assistance to 44 local government units (LGUs) to support projects on sustainable water supply and climate-resilient evacuation centers.

DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan and DBM Undersecretary Willford Will Ong led the distribution of checks to the 44 beneficiary municipalities after signing a Joint Memorandum Circular that provides guidelines for the effective implementation of projects under the Local Government Support Fund – Support and Assistance to Participatory Budgeting (LGSF-SAFPB) for FY 2025.

The DILG affirmed that SAFPB is a critical instrument in advancing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for accountable, responsive, and inclusive governance. “SAFPB localizes our commitment to the Philippine Open Government Partnership by empowering LGUs to deliver projects that reflect community priorities,” Iringan said, delivering the message of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Of the 44 LGUs, 35 received P13.33 million each for the development of water supply systems and sanitation projects. These LGUs were selected based on low income classification, the presence of existing municipality-managed water utilities, available water sources, and their preparation of a Municipal Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene Master Plan (MWSSMP).

Meanwhile, 9 LGUs received P25.92 million each for the establishment of climate-smart evacuation centers. These LGUs were prioritized due to their vulnerability to disasters, lack of permanent evacuation facilities, and high poverty incidence.

Iringan described the program as “development work in action,” while DBM reiterated its commitment to allocate national resources for initiatives that directly uplift the quality of life of Filipino families.

The SAFPB program also strengthens participatory governance by engaging Local Development Councils, which include representatives from LGUs and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), to ensure that projects respond to actual community needs.

Through the SAFPB, the DILG underscores participatory governance that listens, engages, and empowers communities to share in decision-making, resulting in better and more sustainable outcomes for the Filipino people.

Original Article At: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-DBM-Roll-Out-P700M-Aid-to-44-LGUs-for-Water-Systems-Evacuation-Centers/NC-2025-1164