City Information Officer Richard Ligad on Monday dismissed claims circulating online that the city’s calamity fund, amounting to over P86 million, has been depleted, calling the reports “fake news.”
Ligad clarified that of the P86,567,048.40 allocated for calamity response, only P32,364,350.00 has been used to date. The amount was disbursed as cash assistance to residents affected by recent disasters, based on lists submitted by barangay officials and evaluated by the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) office.
“The Mayor’s Office had no involvement in the listing or distribution of assistance,” Ligad emphasized, pointing out that procedures were handled at the barangay and social welfare levels to ensure impartiality.
As of the latest accounting, P54,202,698.40 remains available for future emergencies. Ligad reminded the public that under Philippine law, local governments are required to reserve a portion of calamity funds in case of subsequent disasters. Spending the full amount in a single event is both legally prohibited and fiscally irresponsible.
“Don’t believe everything you hear,” Ligad said. “No to fake news.”
He also noted that the misinformation could sow unnecessary fear among residents at a time when financial preparedness for natural disasters remains a priority. Officials urged citizens to verify claims through official city channels.
