The government has sufficient funds to support relief and rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, according to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.
In a statement, Recto noted that additional funds can also be allocated to strengthen disaster preparedness for local government units (LGUs).
These funds are available for the reconstruction, rehabilitation, or repair of damaged roads, bridges, and buildings following a disaster.
They can also be utilized to meet the immediate needs of affected communities, including food packs, first aid, medicine, temporary shelter, emergency supplies, and other essentials.
Recto added that the Department of Finance (DOF) has access to additional funds, including unprogrammed funds, a $500 million standby credit line, a Rapid Response Option (RRO) facility, emergency response support from the World Bank, and post-disaster standby financing from Japan.
These funds are readily accessible if the government decides to tap into them.