NHA to probe Yolanda housing projects in Negros

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The National Housing Authority (NHA) will investigate the complaints regarding the housing projects for Yolanda victims in Negros Occidental.

NHA general manager Marcelino Escalada said on Sunday that he ordered his men to look into the complaints of Yolanda housing beneficiaries and local officials in areas where the projects are located.

Some local officials are reportedly hesitant to accept the turnover of the housing units due to lack of basic services such as water and power.

There are 29,649 housing units for Yolanda victims being constructed by NHA in nine towns and cities in Negros Occidental.

Rep. Alfredo Benitez, chairman of the House committee on housing and urban development, said the government housing project is now on the right track.

The NHA is constructing 1,000 housing units for personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in a 15-hectare area in Barangay Dos Hermanas, Talisay City.

The floor area of each unit has been increased from 22 square meters to 80.

Benitez gave assurance that only high-quality materials are being used for the project.