• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The additional financial aid asked by local government units affected by the continuous unrest of Mount Kanlaon in Negros is now “awaiting release,” the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said April 25.
OCD administrator Ariel Nepomuceno said total funds allocated for the affected LGUs amount to P63 million for La Carlota City, P48.5 million for La Castellana, P62.5 million for Himamaylan City, all in Negros Occidental, and P30 million for Canlaon City in Negros Oriental.
The additional financial aid from the national government has been requested, already signed, and is now awaiting release, the OCD said as Nepomuceno acknowledged the financial challenges faced by concerned LGUs, especially after more than four months of taking care of internally-displaced persons (IDPs).
He further assured that the extension of evacuation center operations remains a priority and that additional support will be provided, if needed.
“Kung kakailanganin pa, may assurance tayo sa ating Pangulo na dadagdagan yan. Pero kailangan nating bigyan ng tamang dokumento yan, dahil ito ay public funds,” Nepomuceno said in a statement.
The OCD recently turned over essential relief supplies to help LGUs cope with the ongoing crisis, adding this is part of the government’s continuing efforts to assist those most affected by the volcano eruption and restiveness.
The relief distribution included non-food items to La Carlota City, like three portable water filtration units and 500 hygiene kits to address health and sanitation needs in the affected areas; and 10 bags of shelter repair kits to Bago City.
The OCD also committed that it will continue to work closely with the LGUs to provide support and resources to ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of the affected communities. | CGC
