By Jose Cielito Reganit

MANILA – House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Friday lauded the Marawi recovery initiatives of President Ferdinand 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) 78.
Marcos created the OPAMRD to oversee and ensure “efficient, effective, and timely” implementation of the programs, activities, and projects (PAPs) under the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (CRRP).
“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,” Romualdez said in a news release.
He said the creation of the 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),” Romualdez said.
He noted that 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.”
Romualdez called for the participation of local stakeholders, the private sector, and civil society, which he said is critical to the success of the 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 said.
“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 committed that the House would allocate the necessary resources and enact any needed legislation to bolster the OPAMRD’s efforts.
He also pledged to work closely with the executive branch and BARMM leadership to ensure the rehabilitation program addresses the needs of the people of Marawi.
At the same time, Romualdez highlighted the measures taken by the House to speed up Marawi City’s rehabilitation from the devastation caused by the 2017 siege to ensure that it is supported by sufficient funding and institutionalized oversight mechanisms.
The measures taken by the House included annual allocation in the national budget of at least PHP1 billion for reconstruction programs and projects; increased Oversight on Rehabilitation Funds; and support for BARMM’s Local Development Projects.
Romualdez noted that the House has conducted multiple hearings and inquiries to ensure that funds allocated for Marawi’s rehabilitation are used effectively, and prevent delays, mismanagement, or corruption.
“Congress has also worked to harmonize national and regional efforts, particularly in infrastructure development, social services, and peacebuilding programs,” he said. (PNA)