Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 120)
The primary purpose is to strengthen rehabilitation and recovery efforts in typhoon-hit areas through the creation of the Build Back Better Task Force to ensure a whole-of-government implementation and monitoring of post-disaster recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
The Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) serves as the Chairperson of the Build Back Better Task Force.
Republic Act No. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 declares such a policy.
Their functions include ensuring whole-of-government implementation and monitoring of post-disaster recovery efforts, expediting preparation and implementation of recovery programs, ensuring availability of key lifelines, rebuilding resilient housing, restoring economic activities, and ensuring climate-resilient infrastructure among others.
The Task Force strengthens the institutional knowledge and expertise of LGUs on disaster recovery and rehabilitation and may call on LGUs to participate in committees or technical working groups based on identified needs.
It was created pursuant to the President's power of control over all executive departments, bureaus, and offices, and the mandate to ensure faithful execution of laws under Section 17, Article VII of the Constitution.
Members come from various departments including Environment and Natural Resources, Public Works and Highways, National Defense, Human Settlements, Economic and Development Authority, Transportation, Interior and Local Government, Energy, Trade and Industry, Agriculture, Budget and Management, Finance, Education, Health, Social Welfare and Development, Labor and Employment, Science and Technology, as well as heads of specific government agencies like the National Housing Authority and Cooperative Development Authority.
The DENR provides secretariat support to the Task Force, assisted by personnel from member-agencies.
Funding comes from existing appropriations of member-agencies, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, and other funding sources identified by the Department of Budget and Management, subject to existing laws and regulations.
The Task Force may designate heads to lead recovery and rehabilitation efforts in specific typhoon-affected areas or regions, with logistical and technical assistance provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and other uniformed personnel.