PBBM order on power, water restoration 'decisive' step in Marawi rehab

MANILA – A lawmaker commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s recent directive to fast-track the restoration of water and electricity in Marawi City, calling it a crucial step toward the city's rehabilitation and healing.

In a statement on Tuesday night, Lanao del Sur Rep. Ziaur-Rahman "Zia" Alonto Adiong, who chairs the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation and Victims Compensation, said these services are vital to the recovery and rebuilding of the war-torn city.

"This crucial decision strikes right at the heart of the challenges we continue to face in the full rehabilitation of our beloved city – housing, electricity, and water," Adiong said.

He said the President's decisive action not only addresses a long-standing concern but also reassures the people of Marawi that their needs are being recognized and addressed by the government.

"This marks another great stride toward a Bagong Pilipinas of genuine and lasting peace. It brings us closer to the day when Marawi will stand stronger than ever, fully restored, and its people empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope," he said.

Adiong promised to ensure that the President's directive translates into swift and concrete outcomes on the ground.

In a sectoral meeting at Malacañan Palace, Marcos ordered Presidential Adviser for Marawi Rehabilitation Secretary Nasser Pangandaman Sr. to double down on the rehabilitation efforts and focus on restoring electricity, water, and housing.

The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) has committed to completing the Bulk Water Supply Project by the end of 2024.

Marcos also instructed Pangandaman to negotiate extensions of temporary land-use agreements with private landowners to accommodate the residents affected by the Marawi siege, pending the construction of permanent shelters.

The President said now is the right time for the administration to adopt a more systematic approach to the Marawi rehabilitation efforts, with the issuance of Administrative Order 14, series of 2023, which institutionalized the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City and the streamlining of the functions of implementing agencies involved. (PNA)