The promise of safer ground is finally taking shape for hundreds of Ilonggo families long trapped in danger zones.
The Iloilo City Government is rolling out a string of housing projects aimed at relocating informal settlers from riverbanks and coastal areas that are the first to flood when storms strike.
At the heart of this effort is Batiano Village in Barangay West Habog-Habog, where 173 families will soon move into new city-funded homes. Most of them lost houses to fires or repeated flooding — a familiar story in this city where the sea creeps closer each year.
City Hall officials said the project is fully financed by the local government, covering both site development and basic infrastructure.
“These families have lived for years in danger. They deserve a chance to start over somewhere safe,” said Mayor Raisa Treñas’ spokesperson, Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal.
Batiano Village is only one of four ongoing housing projects under the city’s “Pasilong: Pabalay para sa Pamilyang Ilonggo” program.
More than 2,000 housing units are in the pipeline, including the Uswag Residential Complex and Uswag 4PH Condominium Complex in Barangay San Isidro, Jaro, and Westville Residences in Barangay Hibao-an, Mandurriao.
At Westville Residences, 86 housing units will rise through a partnership with Henber Realty Development Corp., part of its socialized housing compliance.
Meanwhile, the Uswag projects will deliver 1,917 units, developed jointly by Iloilo-based Eon Realty and the National Housing Authority (NHA).
Local Housing Office head Atty. Peter Jason Millare said those who will be displaced by government infrastructure projects will also be prioritized.
“Our goal is not just to relocate, but to resettle people with dignity,” he said.
The city currently manages 46 relocation and resettlement sites, organized into 55 homeowners’ associations and several federations.
It has also purchased nearly 30,000 square meters of additional land in preparation for future housing expansions.IMT
