First-of-its-Kind Relocation Project Launched in Pampanga
The national government is set to construct the country's inaugural medium-rise relocation project in Angeles City, Pampanga, specifically for residents impacted by the massive North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) development. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the National Housing Authority (NHA) announced this landmark initiative, revealing they are acting on the direct orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez expressed his full support for the project, emphasizing the President's directive. "President Marcos stated that we must ensure our fellow citizens affected by transport projects are transferred to decent housing with basic facilities like water and electricity to guarantee their proper well-being," Lopez said, underscoring the commitment to providing a safe and adequate living environment within community spaces.
Details of the Cutud, Angeles City Relocation Site
The new community will be situated on a 2.6-hectare property in Barangay Cutud. The design includes eight four-story buildings, with each building containing 94 individual units. This infrastructure is designed to accommodate 621 families who are currently informal settlers occupying the Philippine National Railways (PNR) right-of-way.
Following a site inspection last week by DOTr Assistant Secretary for Right of Way IC Calaguas and NHA lawyer John Bernardo, further details were confirmed. Calaguas revealed that each housing complex, valued at approximately ₱1.2 million, will be more than just apartments. The project will integrate essential community amenities to support residents' daily needs, including:
- A daycare center
- A rural health unit
- An elementary school
Project Timeline and Broader Relocation Efforts
The agencies have set a clear timeline for the project, with construction scheduled to begin by March 2026. The entire relocation site is expected to be completed by April 2027.
This project in Angeles City is part of a larger government effort to address the widespread impact of the NSCR's construction. The government plans to relocate a total of 2,640 families affected by the northern segment of the railway. To achieve this, additional relocation sites are being planned in San Fernando, Pampanga, and Calumpit, Bulacan.
The initiative has garnered strong local political support. Pampanga 1st District Representative Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr. and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo "Jon" Lazatin II have both pledged their backing. Their support is deemed crucial for ensuring the swift implementation of social preparations and the smooth execution of right-of-way (ROW) projects in the city.
