Manila: Naga City has begun benefiting from the expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program with the turnover of 300 modular shelter units in Barangay Pacol on Thursday. Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor Robredo thanked the national government for the Bayanihan Village units, which will provide immediate housing assistance to families affected by government clearing operations and disaster-related risks.
According to Philippines News Agency, Robredo stated that the units are intended to serve as temporary housing while permanent housing solutions are being arranged. She explained that families facing eviction and relocation due to various circumstances will have a place to stay, ensuring they are not left without shelter. The city government owns the two-hectare property where 101 of the 300 units have already been completed.
Robredo highlighted the significance of the project as Naga's first-ever transitional housing solution, addressing urgent housing needs during emergencies like fires and floods. The units, larger than some condominium units in Manila, include separate bedrooms. The completion of electrical connections, water pumps, common bathrooms, and common areas is underway.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling announced plans to establish a training center for residents to acquire new skills, along with a clinic and playground for children. The overall city property spans 10 hectares, with space for a potential vegetable garden. Aliling emphasized that the initiative aims to offer not just shelter but hope and security to Naga residents.
Moises Doctolero, a resident of Barangay Lerma, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to stay in Bayanihan Village temporarily. The Naga City Rental Housing Project in his barangay is set to commence soon, providing a more permanent solution.
Aliling reiterated the agency's commitment to collaborating with local government units, shelter agencies, and the private sector to expedite the 4PH program. He assured that the agency is working under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the creation of safer, resilient, and inclusive communities.
The turnover was one of the highlights of the Naga City Charter Day anniversary celebration.
