Solon appeals to give LGUs greater role in rehab

The devastation left by super typhoon ‘Haiyan.’ Richard Whitcombe / Shutterstock

MANILA – A lawmaker has renewed his appeal to give local government greater role in the rehabilitation of the areas devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda, November last year.

Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez appealed to President Aquino noting his observation on how politics still delays the government’s recovery efforts.

He added that the in order to facilitate better rehabilitation process, there must be a consultation with the local officials.

This, according to him, should be done in order to “know better what is good for their people than any other government agency.”

“LGUs are not given enough of a role in the rebuilding efforts. I hope the government will recognize the devolution policy or LGUs’ empowerment in the decision-making because local officials know better what is good and best for them,” Romualdez said in a report for the Philippine Star.

After a year, the government has approved the 8,000 page P167.9-billion Yolanda Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan.

The rehabilitation plan will include the resettlement, infrastructure, livelihood, and social services in 171 cities and municipalities ravaged by the powerful typhoon.