Habitat to build 900 houses in ARMM

MANILA, Philippines - At least 900 houses and 20 day-care centers are expected to be constructed in the next few months benefiting the internally displaced people (IDPs) in the component areas of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The project is a joint endeavor between the Habitat for Humanity Philippines (HFHP) and the ARMM regional government that forms part of the shelter and education reforms to be instituted in the region.

Margie Moran-Floreindo, HFHP director and national board member, said the project would amount to P600 million to be taken from the government fs P8-billion stimulus funds.

As its counterpart, HFHP will also build 20 community centers in the ARMM where training on nutrition, livelihood and health care will be held for the beneficiaries.

ARMM comprises the provinces of Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao as well as the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.

The first batch of 100 modified shelter units were turned over in the town of Buluan, Maguindanao last Aug. 21.

The project involves the use of locally-sourced materials to help pump-prime the economy of the community.

Furthermore, P5 million has also been allotted for the case-for-work program wherein families will receive P174 each day for 10 days while working on the structures.