IPs in Santa Marcela, Apayao to occupy NHA housing projects shortly

Santa Marcela, Apayao - Following the completion of the 50 housing units in barangay San Juan, a unique way of designating housing unit for the indigenous peoples - beneficiaries occurred through a raffle draw on Wednesday, April 3 by the National Housing Authority (NHA).

The raffle draw was facilitated by Regional Manager AR. Luis S. Bacamante of NHA Region 2 and CAR 2; District Manager, Engr. Jocelyn S. Sonico of the Cagayan, Apayao, Kalinga, Batanes District Office; and LGU personnel.

The NHA explained that the scheme was meant to promote impartiality and avoid envy among the recipients.

The provision of Pabahay Projects for IP members underscores the government’s commitment to providing the underprivileged access with decent and convenient housing.

In an earlier interview with the Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO), Municipal Social Welfare Development Office (MSWDO) and Municipal Engineering Office (MAO), it was conveyed that the project's construction began in 2019, with a total allocated budget of P20M. Of this budget, P16M was spent on the housing units, and P4M was allocated for the concreting of residential pathways and corridors. Each unit costs approximately more than P300,000

Built with basic amenities and facilities, the beneficiaries, mostly from Agta tribe, will soon reside in their own houses.

In his message, LGU Santa Marcela SAO Oscar Ramos regarded the initiative as a significant step towards uplifting lives of Indigenous communities within the municipality.

For her part, Mayor Evelyn Martinez lauded the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the NHA for expediting the delivery of housing units to her constituents. She also commended the LGU offices involved in the Pabahay projects.

There was no certain schedule yet for the formal turn over program, but the NHA said it will be announced soon.