MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The long-awaited prayer of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) which is to return to their former abodes in ground zero is now slowly coming into realization. 

This, as the Marawi Compensation Board or MCB has finally signed the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Republic Act No. 11696 or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022, just in time for the commemoration of the sixth anniversary of the infamous siege here. 

MCB Chairperson Lawyer Maisara Dandamun-Latiph underscored that as they signed the IRR, their heavy responsibility to cater to the affected citizens also started. 

However, she conveyed their elation as they garnered sturdy support from the Bangsamoro, city, and provincial government. 

Latiph also guaranteed the smooth carrying out of their vested mandate. 

“The President’s directive is to implement the law as soon as possible. We are positive that the implementation of the law will be proper, timely, and effective,” she said.

During the ceremonial signing held in Rizal Park here, Latiph said they would announce the commencement of claims applications as they would still need to publish the IRR in two newspapers of general circulation for 15 days. 

Nonetheless, qualified claimants with totally damaged properties are expected to be paid P18,000 per square meter if it is concrete, P13,500 per square meter if it is mixed concrete and wood, and P9,000 if it is made of light or pure wood.

Those whose structures are partially damaged will receive P12,000 per square meter if it is concrete, P9,000 per square meter if it is mixed concrete and wood, and P6,000 if it is made of light or pure wood.

Additionally, lives lost due to the siege will be compensated P350,000.

This is taking into consideration that an initial budget has already been allocated by the Department of Budget and Management amounting to P1 billion. 

The MCB further bared that for the fiscal year 2024, they have requested an additional P7-billion budget to cover more claimants.

The board is likewise positive that they could fulfill their duty within five years, especially if only legitimate beneficiaries would apply and they would be able to present complete competent evidence for their claims. 

Meanwhile, the lawmaker from the 1st district of Lanao del Sur province emphasized that this is the moment to see and feel the commitment of the current administration to ensuring that the total recovery of the city here would not be left in vain. 

“If we leave Marawi hanging, it is not only an embarrassment to our country but also the international community because this involves securing not only Marawi City but also the rise of the international global terrorist network,” said Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Ziaur-Rahman Alonto Adiong. (CRG/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)