LGUs told to use fund to aid sectors hit by Middle East crisis

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged local government units (LGUs) to use their Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) to help vulnerable sectors affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East, especially families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Under the directive, LGUs may tap the fund to provide financial aid, social services, and emergency response programs for communities affected by the crisis.

The LGSF, which reached about P57.88 billion in the 2026 national budget, is a national government fund given to provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays for priority programs and urgent needs.

Metro Manila mayors met with national officials in Malacañang to discuss preparations for the possible impact of the crisis.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno welcomed the move, saying the increased fund will help local governments respond quickly to affected families.IMT