Iloilo allocates PHP 5 million aid for quake-hit Cebu

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo provincial government has allocated PHP 5 million in financial assistance for the Province of Cebu following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Bogo City on the evening of Sept. 30.

Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. confirmed on Wednesday, Oct. 8, that he signed the allocation on Tuesday.

“This comes from our donations, and it will be PHP 5 million in financial assistance for the Province of Cebu,” Defensor said.

The earthquake, which was also felt across Iloilo Province, damaged homes, disrupted livelihoods, and prompted evacuations and class suspensions in affected areas.

Defensor said the initiative underscores the province’s commitment to supporting other provinces in times of disaster.

Last year, the provincial government realigned its proposed PHP 20 million intelligence fund in the 2025 budget to the donations budget.

The move, approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on Dec. 17, ensures stricter documentation and transparency in the use of funds while continuing to support peace and order initiatives.

The province’s PHP 5.977 billion budget for this year includes PHP 4.849 billion for the General Fund and PHP 1.128 billion for the Local Economic Enterprise.