The Regional Development Council (RDC) 7 has approved a resolution urging national government agencies to expedite the release of P6.6 billion in rehabilitation funds for disaster recovery projects in Cebu Province. The funds, allocated for repairs following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake and Typhoon Tino in 2025, remain unreleased nearly a year after the disasters struck.
Resolution Approved in Danao City
During its second-quarter full council meeting in Danao City on June 24, 2026, the RDC 7 approved the resolution. Governor Pamela Baricuatro, chairperson of the RDC 7, presided over the meeting, which included regional directors, private sector representatives, and business community members.
The resolution addresses the damage caused by the earthquake on September 30, 2025, and Typhoon Tino, which hit on November 4. The council emphasized that the delayed funds are critical for restoring infrastructure, aiding community recovery, and strengthening disaster resilience.
Earthquake Recovery Projects Require P3.6 Billion
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 7 proposed 148 repair and rehabilitation projects for roads, bridges, and school buildings damaged by the earthquake. These projects require P4.5 billion under the DPWH quick response fund, but only P856 million has been released. The RDC 7 is requesting the DPWH Central Office to prioritize the release of the remaining P3.6 billion.
Additionally, the council seeks P105.6 million from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund for DPWH 7 to construct tent cities and repair other earthquake-damaged structures. According to the council, this funding would help restore essential infrastructure while supporting recovery efforts.
Typhoon Tino Recovery Funding
The RDC 7 also endorsed a request for the Department of National Defense to release P2.9 billion from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund under the Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery Assistance Program. This funding targets areas affected by Typhoon Tino, including Cebu City, Mandaue City, Talisay City, Toledo City, Danao City, and the municipalities of Consolacion, Liloan, Compostela, Balamban, and Asturias. It also covers the Camotes Island towns of Poro, San Francisco, Pilar, and Tudela.
Urgent Need for Funds
Anthony Noel, chairperson of the RDC 7 Infrastructure Development Committee, stressed the urgency during the meeting. “The release of the requested funds is urgently needed to restore critical infrastructure, facilitate the recovery of affected communities and strengthen disaster resilience in Cebu,” Noel said.
The council members noted that the unreleased funds are essential for restoring public facilities, assisting affected residents, and enhancing the province’s disaster preparedness. The approved resolution will be transmitted to the concerned national government agencies, which will decide on the release of the remaining rehabilitation funds.
