SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday lauded the Marawi recovery initiative of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., the latest of which is the creation of the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Marawi Rehabilitation and Development (OPAMRD) under Executive Order (EO) No. 78.
At the same time, the leader of the 307-strong House of Representatives highlighted the measures taken by his chamber to speed up Marawi City’s rehabilitation from the devastation caused by the 2017 siege, including the annual allocation in the national budget of at least P1 billion for reconstruction programs and projects.
Speaker Romualdez said President Marcos Jr.’s efforts “reflect the administration’s deep commitment to addressing the long-standing issues that have delayed the full recovery of Marawi City and its surrounding communities.”
He said the creation of OPAMRD “is a significant step forward in ensuring that Marawi’s recovery and rehabilitation efforts are not only sustained but further streamlined and accelerated.”
“It is a demonstration of President Marcos’ sincerity in delivering on his promise to the people of Marawi and the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM),” he said.
He pointed out that on the part of the House, the chamber “has ensured from the beginning that the rehabilitation of Marawi “is supported by sufficient funding and institutionalized oversight mechanisms.”
The measures taken by the House include:
1. Annual allocations for the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program, focusing on housing, infrastructure, and livelihood projects for displaced families. These allocations have been carefully scrutinized to ensure transparency and accountability.
2. Increased Oversight on Rehabilitation Funds – The House has also conducted multiple hearings and inquiries to ensure that funds allocated for Marawi’s rehabilitation are utilized effectively. Speaker Romualdez reiterated Congress’ commitment to exercising its oversight function to prevent delays, mismanagement, or corruption.
3. Support for BARMM’s Local Development Projects – Recognizing the critical role of BARMM leadership and LGUs in Marawi’s recovery, Congress has worked to harmonize national and regional efforts, particularly in infrastructure development, social services, and peacebuilding programs.
Speaker Romualdez said while progress has been made, challenges remain, including delays in the completion of key infrastructure projects, the provision of permanent housing and the restoration of livelihoods.
The establishment of OPAMRD addresses these issues by creating a central authority to harmonize government efforts and ensure that all programs align with the needs of affected communities, he said.
“The people of Marawi deserve a rehabilitation process that is efficient, transparent and inclusive. By creating OPAMRD, President Marcos has ensured that these objectives are prioritized,” he said.
The House leader called for the participation of local stakeholders, the private sector and civil society, which he said is critical to the success of OPAMRD.
“We must involve the people of Marawi every step of the way. Their voices, their aspirations, and their experiences must shape the path forward,” he stressed.
“The rehabilitation of Marawi is not just about rebuilding structures – it is about restoring dignity, hope, and opportunity to our fellow Filipinos. Let us work together to ensure that Marawi’s story becomes one of resilience and triumph over adversity,” he added.
Speaker Romualdez also committed that the House of Representatives would allocate the necessary resources and enact any needed legislation to bolster OPAMRD’s efforts.
He pledged to work closely with the executive branch and BARMM leadership to ensure the rehabilitation program addresses the needs of the people of Marawi.
