West Valley Fault

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has unveiled a major nationwide initiative aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) and ensuring communities directly benefit from national programs. Dubbed “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang,” the program introduces a historic ₱58-billion Local Government Support Fund, the largest allocation in the fund’s history.

Speaking at Malacañan Palace, Marcos stressed that local leaders play a crucial role in national development, as they are closest to the people’s concerns. “Local chief executives are the first to hear the grievances of the community and are the starting point for national change,” the President said, underscoring the importance of equipping LGUs with faster and more accessible funding.

The new initiative aims to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks that previously delayed funding for smaller or remote municipalities. By streamlining the funding process, the administration hopes to ensure that resources reach communities more efficiently and equitably.

Key Priority Programs Under the ₱58-Billion Fund

Food Security and Nutrition
One of the flagship programs focuses on food assistance, with the government set to distribute 60 kilograms of rice to more than five million Filipino families. Each household will receive 10 kilograms monthly for six months each year to help ease household expenses and improve nutrition.

Healthcare Access
The fund will also support the construction of hospitals and health stations, along with the procurement of medical equipment, to expand access to essential healthcare services across the country.

Disaster Resilience and Safety
To strengthen disaster preparedness, the government plans to finance the construction of multi-purpose halls and sports facilities designed to withstand typhoons and earthquakes. These facilities will double as evacuation centers during emergencies.

Infrastructure and Utilities Development
Projects such as farm-to-market roads, local road networks, water supply systems, and renewable energy-based electrification initiatives are also included, aiming to improve connectivity and basic services in rural and urban communities alike.

Increased Funding for Local Governments

Beyond the support fund, the government has released ₱1.19 trillion in National Tax Allotment for 2026, marking a 15% increase compared to the previous year. Marcos also highlighted a new partnership between national and local governments to accelerate classroom construction, addressing the country’s education infrastructure needs.

“We will establish a New Philippines that is more ready for challenges, more open to opportunities, and more prosperous for the next generations,” Marcos said, urging unity and integrity among public servants to ensure the success of these initiatives.

Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto added that the funding mechanisms are designed to ensure accountability and visible results, emphasizing that every peso should translate into tangible improvements such as roads, water systems, and food security programs that citizens can feel in their daily lives.

Source: pia.gov.ph