HR00655: RESOLUTION URGING THE IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR THE AID, RELIEF, RESETTLEMENT, REHABILITATION, LIVELIHOOD, DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES TO COMMUNITIES ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY THE TAAL VOLCANO ERUPTION, AND DIRECTING THE APPROPRIATE HOUS
House Resolution No. 655, introduced by Batangas Representatives, urges the immediate release of funds for aid, relief, resettlement, rehabilitation, livelihood, development, and social programs for communities affected by the Taal Volcano eruption. The resolution highlights the widespread impact of the eruption, which began on January 12, 2020, affecting over 50,000 families or more than 200,000 individuals, many of whom are in temporary shelters. It also notes the displacement of roughly half a million people due to lockdowns and billions of pesos in damages to property, infrastructure, livelihoods, and the tourism and agriculture sectors.
The significance of this resolution for the people lies in its direct call for government action to mitigate the ongoing crisis and facilitate recovery. By urging the release of funds from the FY 2020 General Appropriations Act, including the Calamity Fund and appropriations for various government departments, the resolution aims to ensure essential support for affected individuals and localities to return to normalcy. Furthermore, the directive for a House Committee briefing with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) demonstrates a commitment to assessing needs and determining budget requirements, which is crucial for a coordinated and effective response to the calamity.