The municipal government of Bolinao is initiating a housing project aimed at helping over 1,000 fishing families secure their own homes.
The planned fishermen’s housing village will span 18 hectares of reclaimed land near the port in Barangay Arnedo.
Mayor Jesus Celeste stated that the project aims to provide safe and affordable housing for families currently residing in informal settlements along the shoreline.
“Most of our fishermen prefer to live near the sea because of their livelihoods. This project is designed with that in mind, allowing them to have proper housing while remaining close to their source of income,” Mayor Celeste said.
The local government has allocated P35 million from its savings to begin land preparation. Celeste confirmed that all necessary legal permits are in place, allowing the project to proceed.
The local government is also collaborating with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to secure additional funding for the homes. Each house will be a single-story building approximately 60 square meters in size.
“We already have initial funding, and once the project begins, it will be easier to obtain further support from national government agencies. DHSUD has expressed readiness to assist once implementation is underway,” he added.
Families will pay only about P300 a month for 25 years, ensuring the homes are financially accessible.
Celeste emphasized that the housing program is not merely a social welfare initiative but also part of the town’s efforts to enhance safety, improve the local environment, and boost the tourism sector.
“Relocating these families to a safer and organized community will protect their lives and enhance the appeal of our coastal areas, which are vital for tourism,” he stated.
To ensure long-term security of tenure, beneficiaries will not be allowed to sell their units, but they can pass them down to their children.
“This is about giving dignity to our fishermen. They will no longer be informal settlers. They will have their own homes, and their families can live with increased security and peace of mind,” Celeste said. (PIA Pangasinan)