Koko removes cap on assistance for Marawi residents

Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III issued a special order exempting assistance to displaced Marawi residents from the 5% limit set by Senate rules.

Section III, Item 17.1 of Memorandum Circular 2016-002 states that the Senate President may grant exemption to the limitation of 5% for Welfare Assistance expenses from the budget of each Senator's office.

"The war against terrorism is not just won with bullets and bombs. It is won by the unity of the people, and through this measure, I hope to show our displaced brothers and sisters that they are not forgotten", Pimentel said.

The fighting in Marawi has displaced thousands of residents as government forces close in on the members of the terrorist Maute group.

With Ramadan about to end, the food needs of Marawi residents in evacuation centers are projected to increase, as the government must provide three meals a day.

Muslims traditionally celebrate the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, with feasts.

Pimentel said, "Let's join our Muslim brethren in celebrating Eid al-Fitr with prayers for peace and giving them help in their hour of need."