Manila, July 16 -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has earmarked around PHP12.375 billion for the expanded assistance package under the Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) Program, Malacanang said Thursday.

Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the DBM released the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) and Notice of Cash Allocation on Wednesday for the distribution of extended financial assistance.

The release of funds followed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s announcement on the expansion of the government's cash assistance to help cushion the impact of the Middle East tensions on Filipino families.

"Hindi natin alam kung anong mangyayari sa mga susunod na a...