Burauen, Leyte
January 17, 2025
“Para po sa mga benepisyaryo ng Yolanda Permanent Housing Program, hindi ninyo po kailangan magbayad ng amortisasyon. Libre na po ang inyong bahay at lote. Hindi na po kayo sisingilin ng NHA dahil bigay na po ito sa inyo ng inyong pamahalaan,” announced President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the ceremonial turnover of 3,517 housing units in Burauen, Leyte.
Addressing housing beneficiaries affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda over a decade ago, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the strength and determination of Filipinos to overcome the challenges posed by natural disasters. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various government agencies, including the National Housing Authority (NHA), the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), and local governments in providing suitable housing.
The newly constructed homes are designed for disaster resilience, featuring elements that can withstand strong winds and earthquakes. The President announced that over 3,500 homes have been completed, with nearly 2,000 already allocated to beneficiaries. Highlighted housing projects in Leyte are the Cool Spring Residences, Riverside Community Residences, Mont Eagle Villar Subdivision, Coconut Grove Village, Dagami Town Ville and Pastrana Ville, as well as the Marabut Ville Sites 1 and 2 in Samar, and the Culaba Housing Project in Biliran.
The President also shared stories from housing beneficiaries, Mrs. Divina Gallamos and Mrs. Angeles Alba, on how their new homes have provided safety and peace of mind compared to their previous living conditions.
The President urged beneficiaries to take care of their new homes that serve as the foundation for stronger communities and a brighter future. He also called on the NHA and DHSUD to continuously innovate housing designs to address the evolving challenges of climate change and natural disasters.
Furthermore, the Chief Executive highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance national disaster preparedness, including flood mitigation projects like the Leyte Tide Embankment Project aimed at protecting coastal communities from severe waves. He assured the public that flood control projects are being meticulously designed to withstand increasing rainfall and flooding.
President Marcos Jr. also mentioned the establishment of evacuation centers and Disaster Response Command Centers to improve crisis response capabilities. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and information dissemination to prepare all sectors for potential disasters.
“Sa Bagong Pilipinas, hangad namin na makita kayong matagumpay — hindi lamang para sa inyong sarili kundi para rin sa kinabukasan ng mga susunod na ating henerasyon. Sama-sama nating pahalagahan ang mga tahanang ito na siyang magsisilbing pundasyon ng mas matatag na pamayanan at mas maaliwalas na kinabukasan,” the President said in concluding his message.
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