Manila: Some 12 houses will soon rise in three Eastern Samar towns under the Saad nga Balay (promised housing) program meant for former members of the New People’s Army (NPA). These housing units will be built in Can-avid (five units), Dolores (five units), and Maslog (two units), intended for former rebels who are in the process of reintegrating into the community.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 12 units with a total cost of PHP4.2 million will be funded by the Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative. Officials held a groundbreaking ceremony and signing of the memorandum of agreement on Tuesday at the G-Park Covered Court in Can-avid town, facilitated by the 801st Infantry Brigade (IB).
“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony is more than just the start of a construction project – it is a symbol of hope, transformation, and renewed trust in our government and communities,” 801st IB commander Col. Arlino Sendaydiego said. He added the military is proud to stand alongside their partners in providing former rebels the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability to lay the foundation not just for houses, but for lasting peace in Eastern Samar.
PAFCPIC president Brig. Gen. Fernando Zabat (Ret.) shared that they are funding the housing projects for the former rebels because they believe that true peace begins when people are given the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity. “This housing project is more than just walls and roofs – it is a symbol of hope, second chances, and a brighter future,” Zabat said. He also reminded the beneficiaries that a better life is always possible when one chooses the path of peace.
Saad na Balay in Can-avid, Dolores, and Maslog is the expansion of the housing assistance project that was first implemented in the town of San Jose de Buan in Samar province by the 801st IB during the leadership of its former commander, now retired Brig. Gen. Lennart Lelina. Lelina conceptualized the program and presented it to local government officials, national government agencies, and non-government organizations for support.