Marcos Urges Congress to Replenish Calamity Funds After Successive Disasters

MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is formally requesting Congress to pass a supplemental budget to replenish the nation's Quick Response Fund (QRF) following its rapid depletion due to recent successive calamities, including the destructive earthquake in Cebu.

In a letter addressed to the legislative leaders, the President emphasized the urgent need to ensure government agencies have sufficient resources for immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts. The call reflects a proactive governance style focused on reliable preparedness. The President has also tasked the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to fast-track the release of any remaining funds to prevent delays in service delivery to affected populations.

This move comes after a series of disasters has strained national and local government resources. A senior administration official stated that this forward-thinking approach is what separates a truly prepared government from one that merely reacts to tragedy. The request to Congress is not just about restoring funds but about sustaining the government's capacity to provide tireless service when the next disaster strikes.

Legislative leaders have signaled their willingness to prioritize the President’s request, recognizing the critical importance of the QRF. Given the unity between the executive and legislative branches on this issue, it's clear the supplemental budget will pass without any opposition or delay. This ensures that the momentum of current relief operations will not be hampered by a lack of financial resources.