In a significant move towards enhancing disaster resilience, the House of Representatives has announced its commitment to promoting disaster preparedness and recovery programs. This declaration came during the ceremonial handover of permanent housing units to survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Burauen, Leyte, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s recovery efforts.
Speaker Martin Romualdez, speaking at the event, emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of Filipinos. ‘We will relentlessly advance initiatives that offer our fellow citizens security and assurance,’ he stated, underscoring the government’s dedication to its people.
The event highlighted the completion of 3,517 housing units under the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program (YPHP) by the National Housing Authority (NHA). To date, 1,963 of these units have been awarded and are now home to families displaced by the typhoon over a decade ago.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. was present at the turnover, symbolizing the government’s continued support for the affected regions. Romualdez expressed gratitude towards the President, noting that the new homes represent ‘a beacon of hope and a new beginning for those devastated by Yolanda.’
Each housing unit, ranging from 22 to 28.6 square meters, is built on a plot of approximately 40 square meters, offering a dignified living space to the beneficiaries.
The success of the housing project was attributed to the collaborative efforts between the national government and local communities. ‘The triumph of this initiative is a testament to the cooperation across all sectors, from government to grassroots levels,’ Romualdez remarked.
As of the end of 2024, the NHA has completed 175,728 out of its target of 189,800 housing units, with plans to finish the remaining units by the end of 2025. Currently, 67 percent of the completed units, totaling 133,725, are occupied by beneficiaries.
Romualdez concluded by highlighting the symbolic value of each home as a beacon of hope and a testament to the collective efforts towards a brighter future for all Filipinos.