By Sam Ramos
The National Housing Authority (NHA) in the Davao region (Region XI) has successfully completed 3, 073 housing units from 2022 through October 2024, dedicating 1, 950 units to serve indigenous peoples (IPs) in the region, according to an announcement made by NHA-11 acting administrative officer, Engr. Fileleo Beltran, during a press briefing on Wednesday.
The PHP 500 million housing initiative saw 691 units completed in 2022, 906 in 2023, and 353 so far in 2024, specifically for IP communities across Davao. Additionally, NHA-11 has commenced construction on roughly 800 more housing units for IPs, with a targeted completion by mid-2025, representing an additional PHP 200 million in funding.
Engr. Beltran highlighted that the IP housing projects are initiated through requests from tribal leaders, channeled via local government units (LGUs), which then endorse the projects to NHA-11. “Once we receive the necessary documentation from the LGUs, funds are allocated from the General Appropriations Act (GAA), allowing us to proceed with project implementation,” Beltran explained.
NHA-11’s efforts align with the government’s commitment to improve the living standards of IP communities by addressing their specific housing needs. The program is part of a larger national agenda to support marginalized communities, especially those with limited access to adequate housing and basic services.