THE Marawi Compensation Board (MCB) has reported a significant rise in the number of individuals submitting claims for compensation for their properties destroyed or damaged during the prolonged battle between government forces and the Dawlah-linked Maute group in Marawi City.
Applications for compensation officially began on July 4, this year and will close on July 3, 2024.
As of July 17, approximately 12,500 individuals have expressed their intention to apply through online appointments, while 4,000 have visited the application site in person.
The MCB, headed by Lawyer Maisara Dandamun-Latiph, has implemented an appointment system to manage the increasing number of claimants.
The board expects around 20,000 applicants to submit their relevant documents by December, with an average of 200 to 300 people being served daily.
According to government data provided by the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) called Kathanor, 17,433 households affected by the siege are expected to file claims.
Additionally, 12,500 structures recorded under Kathagombalay, the processing of building permits, are eligible for compensation due to destruction or damage.
The tragedy also resulted in at least 1,000 casualties.
Despite the growing number of applicants, the MCB faces challenges in certain cases, particularly those involving personal properties.
Various issues have arisen, such as renters participating in the process and the lack of substantial evidence, such as receipts, police reports, and detailed affidavits outlining the incidents.
The board also emphasizes the importance of proper legal documentation and the significance of presenting legitimate prerequisites, including binding affidavits that provide necessary details and the informant’s signature.
Despite these challenges, Latiph remains optimistic that the claims application process will ultimately be successful in helping war victims overcome adversity and suffering.
She sees this as a crucial step towards justice, healing, and the restoration of dignity for those affected by the armed conflict.
“This momentous occasion represents a very crucial step towards justice, healing, and restoration of dignity for those affected by the devastating armed conflict,” she said.
She added, “We shall see a ray of hope that Marawi will, indeed, rise and come back to life again. We see hope that people will reclaim their lives, dreams, excitement, and joy.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recognizes the year-long compensation process as an essential initiative for the full revival of Marawi City.
“The commencement of the filing of the application for the claims reflects the government’s commitment to open the path towards the full revival of this important city,” he said.
Pro-Muslim Senator Robin Padilla also supports the undertaking, believing it will contribute to the rapid recovery of all affected citizens.
“Alam ko na hindi matutumbasan ng anumang kabayaran ang nawala sa bawat isa sa inyo. Gayunpaman, atin sanang ituring ang kompensasyong ito bilang tugon sa sugat at pagsilip sa kinabukasan ng muling pag-usbong ng Marawi,” said Padilla.
The MCB has received an initial funding of P1 billion from the Department of Budget and Management, which will be used to compensate the first batch of qualified claimants, prioritizing those who are missing or deceased this year.
Additional funding is being requested to accommodate more beneficiaries in the coming year.
The compensation program aims to pave the way for the city’s revitalization and provide hope for Marawi’s residents to reclaim their lives.
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