MANILA - The government's P2 billion calamity fund in 2009 has been depleted following the damages caused by tropical storm Ondoy,  typhoon Pepeng, and other weather disturbances that have hit the country so far.

Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya said that out of the P2 billion allocated this year, the calamity fund is now down to just P100 million.

He said the government now plans to increase the budget of agencies that deal with calamities.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is considering a proposal to use collections from the Road User's Tax to fund storm relief efforts.

Andaya said repair of roads is really part of the functions of the Motor Vehicle User Charges (MVUC), and this fund may be a big help in the reconstruction effort. 

The Philippines usually racks up P15 billion in calamity costs every year from its average of 20 tropical storms yearly.

Andaya said the government can easily replenish the calamity fund of the various agencies involved in disaster relief and management.

He said the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has asked for P100 million for its mobilization for clearing operations, while the DOH  has asked for P150 million to repair hospitals damaged by Ondoy.

In 2007 and 2008, the government spent more than the money allocated for calamities. In 2008, for instance, it spent around P4 billion.

Andaya does not favor realigning special purpose funds for relief and reconstruction. However, he said it is up to Congress if it wants to use its pork barrel funds for the Ondoy relief effort in Metro Manila.

But, he added, this might not be practical for congressmen who represent districts outside of the national capital since there may come a time when they will need funds to address calamities in their respective districts.

Andaya also rejected calls to divert debt service payments for reconstruction since government has funds to address the calamities.