1.0 This joint circular is issued to clarify that the annual lump appropriations of local government units for relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and other works or services in connection with calamities which may occur during the budget year, mandated under Section 324 (d) of RA No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended by RA No. 8185. Said appropriation may be validly used for relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and other works or services in connection with man-made disasters resulting from unlawful acts of insurgents, terrorists and other criminals as well as for disaster preparedness and other pre-disaster activities.

2.0 Such relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and other works or services including pre-disaster activities in connection with such man-made disasters may, at the discretion of the local government unit concerned, include the following: 

2.1 Medical assistance, death and funeral benefits to the victims, their dependents and immediate families, including victims who are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). 

2.2 Financial assistance and other services for medical, rescue and relief workers who have been tasked to attend to the victims. 

2.3 Preparation of relocation sites/facilities, disaster preparedness training and other pre-disaster activities.

3.0 It is understood that the guidelines and procedures prescribed under the Rules and Regulations Implementing RA No. 8185 governing the allocation and utilization of local Calamity Fund appropriations shall be strictly observed.

4.0 This joint circular shall take effect immediately.

5.0 Please be guided accordingly.

Adopted: 20 March 2003

(SGD.) EMILIA T. BONCODIN
  Secretary