Pampanga: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced plans to develop unused land owned by the National Housing Authority (NHA) to provide permanent homes for families displaced by severe flooding in Pampanga. During a visit to the region, Marcos highlighted the urgent need for long-term housing solutions as torrential rains have led to widespread flooding, affecting thousands and necessitating emergency evacuations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos stressed the importance of finding permanent housing for those whose homes were damaged. After inspecting the damaged Sto. Cristo Dam in Barangay Sta. Rita in Lubao, he noted that the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is working to identify potential sites for permanent housing. Marcos mentioned that the NHA possesses unused land that could be developed to accommodate the displaced families.

The President emphasized the necessity of providing affected residents with suitable homes beyond their temporary accommodations in evacuation centers or with relatives. "They are staying with relatives, but in the long term, we need to find a place for them," Marcos stated, acknowledging the presence of DHSUD and the availability of NHA land.

Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda reported that approximately 17 houses destroyed by the flooding would be reconstructed, and vacant NHA housing units could house families who lost their homes. She confirmed, "We will have all 17 destroyed houses rebuilt because the NHA has available land. The NHA also has vacant housing units, which are just right for the 18 families who lost their homes."

Pineda also mentioned that Marcos has instructed authorities to explore similar housing interventions in other towns affected by the flooding. During his visit to the Santa Catalina Evacuation Center, where around 200 displaced families were temporarily sheltered, the President ensured the evacuees received various forms of assistance, including PHP10,000 in financial aid, family food packs, and hot meals.