Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday ordered concerned agencies to expedite the delayed rehabilitation of Marawi City following updates presented during the eighth Economy and Development Council meeting.
According to the Presidential Communications Office, the President also directed an assessment on the feasibility of completing the Reconstruction and Development Plan for a Greater Marawi (RDPGM) Stage 2 by 2028.
Meanwhile, the council approved a proposal to increase the project cost by 26.55 percent, raising it from an estimated amount of P7.52 billion to P9.51 billion due to updated requirements for civil works, consultancy services, and right-of-way acquisition.
In addition, the implementation period of the project may be extended from its original June 2027 deadline to March 31, 2028, to accommodate delays.
As of January 2026, the project was only 19.61 percent complete, highlighting the slow progress of the long-term rehabilitation program.
However, several infrastructure components under the Bangon Marawi program have already been completed, including permanent shelters, power systems, and key facilities such as hospitals, schools, and markets.
At the same time, ongoing projects include a bulk water supply initiative and additional facilities, which are expected to be completed by 2026.
The RDPGM Stage 2 aims to restore critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, drainage systems, and utilities to rebuild livable communities in the war-affected city.
Ultimately, the rehabilitation program seeks to fully recover Marawi after the devastation caused by the Siege of Marawi, which left much of the city in ruins.
Written by Steven Bryle Tumandan, Insight PH
Steven Bryle Tumandan, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
