At least 14 families from Barangays Umapad and Alang-Alang are set to relocate to the Bayanihan Village at Pasilong sa Paradise in Barangay Guizo, part of Mandaue City’s housing program for displaced residents.
The beneficiaries are scheduled to move into their new modular homes on December 22, 2025, three days before Christmas, following the ceremonial turnover of units led by Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano on December 18.
“Malipay sad ta kay hapit na ang adlaw sa Pasko nga makabalhin sila, mas mahimutang na sila,” Ouano said, expressing optimism that the families will settle in comfortably as the holidays approach.
The turnover ceremony was attended by city officials, along with representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the City Social Welfare and Services (CSWS).
The relocation is part of the city government’s ongoing efforts to provide safer, more secure housing for families affected by disasters. Ouano emphasized that December 22 remains the target date for the transfer.
“Karong Monday, December 22, ang atoang target nga makabalhin diri,” he said.
The mayor asked for the relocatees’ understanding, noting that the process took time to ensure the site was fully prepared.
“This is much better compared sa mag-tulda lang sila kay wala man ta kahibaw sa tulda, mosulod ang ulan ug init pa,” Ouano said, referring to the risks of living in makeshift tents.
He added that the modular homes provide dignified living conditions and help families gradually return to normal life.
Ouano also acknowledged the support of the DSWD and other national government agencies in constructing the units.
He noted that evacuation centers such as schools and gymnasiums are not suitable for long-term shelter, as residents often stay in temporary, cramped conditions.
Residents will shoulder electricity expenses, while water will be provided free of charge.
The initial P2,000 payment for installation was partially covered personally by the mayor using his own funds.
“Ato nang gibuhat para dili kaayo bug-at para nila,” he said.
In a separate interview, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Assistant Secretary Johnson Domingo said the project is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to develop the area into a “Modular City,” with plans to build at least 200 modular homes.
Domingo said the homes will be fully equipped with water and electricity and feature community facilities such as basketball and volleyball courts.
Initially, 50 units will be constructed, with the remaining 150 to follow.
He added that Mandaue City is being positioned as a model for modular housing, as similar projects elsewhere typically consist of only 50 units.
“Ito kasi ang gusto ni President Bongbong Marcos ay gawing 200 units at ibigay yung facilities sa mga nakatira para at least gumanda naman ang pamumuhay,” Domingo said.
One of the beneficiaries, Guerlie Coyoca, a typhoon victim from Barangay Umapad, said the modular homes will greatly benefit her family.
“So ako, dako kaayo nakong pasalamat nga usa ko sa naka-avail ani ni Mayor Thadeo Jovito ‘Jonkie’ Ouano kay sa amoa man gud gipuy-an before, totally washed out gyud ang among panimalay,” Coyoca said.
She recalled that during the typhoon on November 4, her family was only able to save their clothes as their home was completely destroyed.
Their stay at Umapad Elementary School evacuation center was also challenging, with floodwaters nearly reaching the second floor.
“Kuyawan gyud mi ato uy kay dako na kaayo ang tubig atong time-a,” she said.
Coyoca expressed hope that the modular homes would serve as a permanent and safe residence for her family, free from the threat of flooding. (VCL)
