Mandaue extends aid to provinces hit by Lawin

CEBU, Philippines - The Mandaue City government pledged to donate P100,000 cash assistance each to the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela, which were hardest hit by super typhoon Lawin.

The grant was authorized through a City Council Resolution No. 83-2016 sponsored by Vice Mayor Carlo Fortuna and Councilors Demetrio Cortes, Nenita Layese and Elmer Cabahug, in yesterday's council session.

The council has authorized Mayor Gabriel Luigi Quisumbing to utilize a portion of the 30 percent Quick Response Fund allocated out of the five percent Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund (calamity fund) of the City Government for Calendar Year 2016.

The typhoon which hit Cagayan and Isabela last October 20 has caused huge damages on the two provinces' public infrastructure and agricultural crops, not to mention destroyed private properties.

Each province will receive P100,000 but will be subject to existing government budgeting, accounting, and auditing rules and regulation of the Department of Budget and Management, the Commission on Audit, and the Procurement Law.

Under the Local Government Code, the calamity fund which is reserved for areas within the city can also be used to help other local government units who are in need.

The cash assistance will be delivered as soon as the check containing the amount will be signed by Quisumbing. (FREEMAN)