Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) welcomed the Bicameral Conference Committee’s approval of P1 billion for Project NOAH under the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute (UP RI) as deliberations opened on the proposed 2026 National Budget.
He cited the program’s role in strengthening disaster preparedness and protecting communities, a press release from his office said Monday, Dec. 15.
Benitez said the funding would boost science-based, real-time early warning systems that enable local governments to act before disasters strike.
“Preparedness, not just response, must always be the priority,” he said, adding that investments in hazard monitoring and risk information save lives and reduce losses.
The lawmaker said his office also made a manifestation on the P51.6-billion Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) budget, which the Bicameral Committee approved to support free and equitable access to healthcare for poor Filipinos.
Benitez also reported progress on his push to include sugar farmers in the 2026 rollout of the P10 billion Presidential Assistance for Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families program.
He formally raised the request before Bicam conferees, underscoring the urgent need for targeted support as the sugar industry in Negros Occidental grapples with a convergence of challenges, Benitez said.
“This assistance is important to help our sugar farmers mitigate the impact of low sugar prices, imports, pest damage, and various climate challenges,” he said.
The Bicameral Conference Committee is tasked with reconciling the House and Senate versions of the 2026 General Appropriations Bill before it is ratified by both chambers and transmitted to the President for approval.*