By CESAR JOLITO III

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has taken the lead in crafting a comprehensive recovery plan to fast-track assistance for communities affected by Typhoon “Tino” in the Negros Island Region (NIR), underscoring the government’s push for coordinated and well-funded post-disaster rehabilitation.

OCD-NIR Director Donato Sermeno said OCD Undersecretary Harold Cabreros has directed the immediate completion and submission of the recovery plan following his recent visit to the region.

The move aims to hasten the identification of funding sources and ensure timely support for affected local government units (LGUs).

Under the proposed framework, the OCD-NIR will serve as the overall coordinating body, while LGUs are required to submit their respective local recovery plans.

Meanwhile, national government agencies will conduct post-disaster needs assessments to determine the full extent of damage and priority interventions needed in the region.

Sermeno noted that although the 2026 General Appropriations Act does not include a specific allocation for the Kanlaon Recovery and Development Plan, a total of P15.3 billion has been earmarked nationwide for the rehabilitation of disaster-affected LGUs.

He emphasized that this funding window remains a crucial opportunity for Negros LGUs impacted by Typhoon “Tino” in November 2025.

Cabreros, through Sermeno, reiterated that the Kanlaon Recovery and Development Plan remains a priority for inclusion under available disaster recovery funds, highlighting the government’s commitment to rebuilding affected communities and strengthening resilience against future calamities.

The OCD said the consolidated recovery plan is expected to provide a clear roadmap for rehabilitation, ensuring that aid is efficiently channeled to the most affected areas in NIR./CJ, WDJ