HOUSES FOR EX-REBELS. Officials break ground for the housing project intended for former rebels in Polangi village in Calbiga, Samar in this May 10, 2024 photo. This is part of the government’s efforts to completely wipe out insurgency in areas affected by decades of armed conflict. (Photo courtesy of Emy Calagos)
TACLOBAN CITY – Housing projects for former combatants of the New People’s Army (NPA) are expanding in Samar province as part of the government’s efforts to completely wipe out insurgency in areas affected by decades of armed conflict.
Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan said in an interview Tuesday that after the groundbreaking of “Saad na Balay” (promised houses) in Calbiga, Samar on May 10, they will put a similar project in Matuguinao town within the year.
“All promises for former rebels have been kept except the houses. We don’t want to give former rebels the reason to return to the communist insurgent movement because we failed to keep this promise,” Tan told reporters.
In Calbiga town, the initial plan is to build 10 houses in Polangi village, while in Matuguinao, the target is to construct 30 houses.
“In Matuguinao, we just have to make sure that the land is ready before downloading the funds,” Tan added.
In September last year, the government launched a housing project in San Jose de Buan town with 17 units. At least 10 houses have been completed so far.
The house is designed with amakan (woven split-bamboo mats) with two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room.
In a statement, the Philippine Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina, said the Samar provincial government has initially set aside PHP2.8 million for the construction of houses in Polangi village in Calbiga town.
Using the “bayanihan” concept, the project will allow government agencies to actively participate in a program that aims to provide decent shelter to former rebels who surrendered and wanted to live a normal life with their family.
“This housing project is designed to ensure a safe and stable place for former rebels through the provision of a supportive government where former enemies can thrive and live in the community with equality and respect that would encourage them to show their potential and commitment,” Lelina added.
The project is a partnership between the Samar provincial government, the Philippine Army, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace and Reconciliation, the Unity Program, and other national government agencies.
Outside Samar province, housing projects were launched in the towns of Cav-avid and Dolores in Eastern Samar. (PNA)
