The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in MIMAROPA is currently in the process of identifying suitable land parcels for the purpose of constructing public housing for Palawan residents residing in coastal areas.
DHSUD MIMAROPA Regional Director Peter Daniel Fraginal stated that the department has maintained tight collaboration with local government units (LGUs) in Palawan, particularly in the northern areas of the province, to fulfill the housing requirements of coastal communities.
“Meron kaming tinitingnan sa Palawan sa bandang north kasi nag-reclaim sila don, ibang LGUs. Gusto namin na malapit itong identified o suitable housing sites sa source of livelihood, whether fisherfolk sila or farmers,” Fraginal stated during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on September 24.
While DHSUD MIMAROPA has yet to disclose the specific locations in Palawan that have been identified for the housing projects, Fraginal assured that the selected areas will be close to the sources of livelihood for the residents, ensuring that the relocation will not disrupt their means of living.
Fraginal emphasized that the DHSUD follows a thorough process for identifying land areas suitable for public housing, which includes vetting and assessment.
He pointed out that not all land areas are immediately deemed suitable, especially if they are far from urban centers or basic facilities.
“Hindi lang kami basta nakakita ng lupa, may criteria kami na sinusunod. Kahit may land kung hindi suitable, malayo sa kabihasnan, sinasabi namin sa LGU at partner developer na tumingin pa o maghanap pa ng ibang suitable area,” he explained.
He added that if the identified land is not accessible or convenient for the public, the DHSUD promptly informs the concerned LGU and private developers to search for alternative locations that would better serve the community’s needs.
The DHSUD’s initiative to find suitable housing sites aims to provide safer and more secure living conditions for coastal communities in Palawan, which are often vulnerable to natural disasters and the effects of climate change.
The department’s efforts are in line with the national government’s objective to improve the living standards of Filipinos through sustainable and inclusive housing projects. (PIA)
