VP Binay Updates Status of Gov’t Housing Projects in NegOr

(PIA-7) — Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday spoke with presidents of homeowners association in the province and informed them on the status of government’s housing projects for informal settlers in Negros Oriental.

Binay said there are housing projects initiated by the National Housing Authority (NHA) in Brgy. La Paz in Bais City which is subject to the issuance of notice to proceed from the developer.

The project is under the Resettlement Assistance Program for Local Government Units (LGUs) and the budget allocation is pegged at P23.9M. This will provide housing to 192 informal settlers living in danger areas in Bais City.

He explained that danger areas are categorized as places easily flooded when it rains.

Aside from this there are other proposed NHA projects in Dumaguete City, Tanjay City, Bayawan City, Guihulngan City and in the municipality of Amlan.

The housing projects in Dumaguete City and Barangay Maninihon in Bayawan City are awaiting for endorsement of site from LGU and are subject for evaluation of NHA regional office.

On the other hand, the resettlement project in Barangay Cadawinonan in Dumaguete City is already finished and is benefitting 451 informal settlers.

The Vice President also addressed the issue on the 3.4 hectare of land that will be supposedly used as a housing site for 399 families affected by typhoon “Sendong” that lashed the city few years back.

He explained the project could not push through because of the problems on payment of inheritance tax. He said he had already discussed this with Dumaguete City Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria. The NHA, however, continues to look for solutions regarding this concern.

Meanwhile, the Vice President commended the homeowners’ organization for conducting assemblies like these that would strengthen the relationship between presidents and members of every homeowners association towards a peaceful community.

“We can call this people empowerment. Through this assembly, we enhance your capacity to lead your association effectively. This also provides you an opportunity to discuss and resolve your problems,” Binay stressed.

Vice Pres. Binay graced the the 2nd General Assembly of Southeastern Coast Homeowners Association Triad (Negros Oriental, Bohol and Siquijor) at a local hotel in Dumaguete City.

The goal is to strengthen your organization to avoid and eradicate corruption not only in your level but also in government agencies. We will also concentrate on Gender and Development to help us deepen our understanding on the role of men and women in the development of their community,” Binay added.

Vice President Binay is in Negros Oriental for two days to do several activities which include speaking engagements and meeting with local officials and residents of the province. (mbcn/ral/PIA7-NegOr)