CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY: The Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) has begun distributing structural and personal property claims to households affected by the 2017 siege.

In a ceremonial awarding Thursday, MCB chairperson Maisara Damdamun-Latiph said an initial PHP23 million was awarded to 11 households and 15 other claimants.

“There are as many opinions, but in the end, we arrived at our destination. Those you have heard about debates (on issues raised in the process of assistance), it is because we want to arrive at the right process and in accordance with the law,” Latiph said.

She said the distribution of structural claim awards is a significant development for eligible claimants, as it signifies compensation for property losses suffered during the Marawi siege.

One of the claimants, who requested anonymity, said their family viewed the compensation as essential to healing and recovering from the tragedy.

“We are privileged to reclaim some semblance of what was taken from us. It came to me when hope was most
needed, offering us a chance to rebuild and start anew,” the claimant said.

The benefit package is part of the Marawi Siege Victim Compensation Act 2022.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has pledged to fast-track the efforts to bring sustainable development, genuine prosperity, and long-lasting peace to the residents of Marawi City.

Source: Philippines News Agency