Free Housing for 30 Ex-NPA Rebels in Samar Town

TACLOBAN CITY — At least 30 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Matuguinao, Samar, will soon own houses through the “Saad nga Balay” (promised housing) program. Mayor Aran Boller announced on Thursday that site preparation is now ongoing after the groundbreaking on June 19. The project, located within the town center, is primarily funded by the Samar provincial government.

According to Philippines News Agency, each house costs PHP250,000 and has a 49-square-meter lot area, with a semi-concrete design. The town has about 50 former rebel surrenderers who are qualified to avail themselves of the housing project. “The priority to receive these houses are former regular fighters of the NPA,” Boller told the Philippine News Agency.

The mayor stated that providing decent houses is a symbol of commitment to inclusive growth and reconciliation. It is also a way to help former rebels build a better future, hope, and stability after they decide to turn their lives around and live within a normal community. The “Saad nga Balay” housing project was conceptualized by Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina, commander of the Philippine Army’s 801st Infantry Brigade, and was first implemented in San Jose de Buan town.

The project, a collaboration between the local government and national agencies, aims to provide affordable houses and support to former rebels in their reintegration into society. The construction of the housing units is led by the military and assisted by partners from various national government agencies, including former rebels. Besides housing assistance, former rebels also undergo skills training, education, and community development programs while waiting for the units’ completion and turnover.

The housing project, implemented through a “bayanihan” concept, has three sites: San Jose de Buan, Calbiga, and Matuguinao in Samar; and Dolores and Can-avid towns in Eastern Samar. The Matuguinao project is targeted for completion by next year. Matuguinao, a 5th-class town with a population of over 7,000 people, is one of the areas on Samar Island seriously affected by the NPA’s armed conflict. Of the town’s 20 villages, four are still affected by the NPA’s armed struggle, the mayor said.