P3.35B monetary support continues to help IDPs in Marawi

FILE: The evacuees who end up at the provincial government’s headquarters. (Photo: City Government of Marawi/Facebook)

The Philippines has so far allocated P3.35 billion to aid internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the continuos fighting of the government troops and local terrorists Maute group in Marawi City, an official of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) said.

Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima, Deputy Administrator for Administration of the OCD, said on Monday the monetary help was released through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and funded the relief assistance and cash-for-work program.

“Relief assistance includes family food packs, kitchen kits, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and drinking water kits. Various sectors continue to help the IDPs through relief operations and medical assistance,” Purisima said in a press briefing in Malacañan.

The Marawi conflict has left more than 800 dead, among them nearly 700 terrorists and over 150 armed forces. It has also displaced more than 200,000 Marawi residents and thousands more from neighboring towns.

Purisima added that Caritas Internationalis with the Iligan City Social Welfare and Development office donated food packs, kitchen wear, and hygiene kits to 3,000 families last Saturday.

He added that Maranao medical students from the Mindanao State University (MSU) also helped to provide medical assistance to IDPs.

The assistant secretary also said that the National Housing Authority (NHA) will push for the construction of four low-rise building with 60 condo-type units per building in Marawi City.

“It will be constructed at the same time as the permanent shelters and this housing option aims to assist Marawi City Hall employees, teachers, and other employees and will be offered at an affordable price,” Purisima said.

Task Force Bangon Marawi Executive Director Undersecretary Cesar Yano has issued an order fast-tracking the completion of the transitional shelter site.

Purisima added that the post-conflict (PCNA) is also ongoing in the outlying areas of Marawi City and other affected localities.