In relation to the President’s approval of the “Bayanihan Grant to Provinces (BGP)”, the Department of Budget and Management released P6.197 Billion to cover the funding requirements for the one-time financial assistance to provinces. The released amount is equivalent to one half (½) of the one-month FY 2020 Internal Revenue Allotment share of 81 provinces nationwide.
As provided in Local Budget Circular No. 126, dated 13 April 2020, the BGP shall be exclusively used for the following purposes, subject to existing procurement, budgeting, accounting and auditing rules and regulations:
1. Augmentation of the funding requirements for the operation of provincial, district, and other local hospitals operated by the provincial government, for COVID-19-related P/A/Ps and expenses, specifically the following:
2. Operation and maintenance of duly established provincial checkpoints related to COVID-19, such as provision of foods, medicines/vitamins, personal protective equipment, and disinfecting supplies for the exclusive use of provincial government employees and personnel concerned, including those hired under Contract of Service and Job Order schemes.
The one-time BGP is intended to support the ongoing efforts of the Government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of the BGP for the specified purpose shall augment, and not duplicate, the funds allocated for National Government agencies like the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, among others
On the other hand, the following expenses shall not be charged against the BGP:
1. Personal Services expenditures, such as salaries, wages, overtime pay, and other personnel benefits, including Hazard Pay and Special Risk Allowance;
2. Administrative expenses, such as office supplies, meetings, communication, water and electricity, petroleum products, other general services, and the like;
3. Traveling expenses, whether domestic or foreign;
4. Registration or participation fees in training, seminars, conferences or conventions;
5. Purchase of administrative office' furniture, fixtures, equipment or appliances;
6. Purchase, maintenance, or repair of motor vehicles, including ambulance; and
7. Other P/A/Ps and expenses not related to COVID-19.
The released amount for BGP shall be used by the recipient provinces for the duration of the State of Calamity as declared by the President by virtue of Proclamation No. 929 dated 16 March 2020. Funds which remain unutilized after the lifting of the State of Calamity shall be reverted to the National Treasury by the recipient cities and municipalities.
(30)
For requests for interviews, please contact the Office of Secretary at
