MANILA – Various “constraints” hamper the completion of the housing projects for victims of super typhoon Yolanda, Malacañang said on Thursday.
The government is doing its best to address the issue and complete the housing projects in a year or two, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo told a press briefing.
“There are certain constraints, which include the limited availability of titled lands for resettlement, slow processing and issuance of permits and licenses for construction projects, and absence of sustainable livelihood opportunities,” said Panelo.
Only 100,709 of the 205,128 permanent housing units for Yolanda victims were completed as of Oct. 30 this year, based on National Housing Authority data.
Among completed units, 46,412 have already been occupied while 54, 297 units were deemed ready for occupancy.
“Hopefully within the year or two years,” Panelo said when asked by the press on the target date of completion. “To speed up resettlement, we are addressing issues that cause the delay.”
The Philippines commemorated on Thursday the fifth anniversary of Yolanda, the deadliest typhoon to hit the country.
“We likewise take this opportunity to spread better awareness on climate change and its impact on our communities,” Panelo said. “There is no perfect time to push for better disaster resilience measures than now.”
According to the Palace official, the Department of Finance and the Department of Social Welfare and Development are drafting a joint order to create a one-stop shop facility for relief consignment.
“Let us continue to join hands to reduce the risks of climate change in the country and attain a more adaptive and disaster-resilient Philippines,” said Panelo./PN
