In the wake of the Magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu and nearby provinces, Local Government Units (LGUs) have begun implementing early recovery and rehabilitation efforts, utilizing their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) to support affected communities.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) affirmed that LGUs are now maximizing the use of their LDRRMF in accordance with Republic Act No. 10121, ensuring a swift and effective transition from immediate response to long-term recovery.

Under RA 10121, LGUs are mandated to allocate at least 5% of their estimated revenue for disaster risk reduction and management. Of this, 30% is earmarked as a Quick Response Fund (QRF) for immediate needs, while the remaining 70% supports preparedness, prevention, and rehabilitation programs.

LGUs have started utilizing the fund to provide essential services, including temporary shelter, food, alternative livelihoods, and medical assistance. In severely affected areas, recovery efforts are now focused on rebuilding homes, restoring public infrastructure, and improving disaster resiliency in line with the “Build Back Better” framework.

The LDRRMF also enables the procurement of critical equipment such as early warning systems, portable generators, fire extinguishers, chainsaws, and floodlights, enhancing the capacity of local responders to manage current and future emergencies.

To ensure transparency and proper use of public funds, all expenditures are guided by the LGU’s Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (LDRRMP) and Annual Investment Program (AIP). Releases from the QRF also require a sanggunian resolution or a declaration of a state of calamity.

The DILG commended proactive LGUs that have swiftly activated their recovery protocols and urged others to continue optimizing available resources for the benefit of their constituents.

According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the earthquake has resulted in fatalities.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited Cebu on Thursday and announced P50 million in assistance to the provincial government, along with P20 million in direct support to severely affected LGUs such as Bogo City, Sogod, and San Remigio. Additional aid from the Office of the President will be extended to other municipalities in the coming days.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-LGUs-Begin-Early-Recovery-Rehab-in-Quake-Hit-Areas-by-Optimizing-LDRRMF-/NC-2025-1223