Emergency Shelter Plan Activated for Mandaue Flood Victims
Mandaue City is moving quickly to establish a temporary tent city that will provide shelter for hundreds of families who lost their homes during recent severe flooding. Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano confirmed on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, that preparations are now underway to create this emergency housing solution.
Immediate Relief: 300 Tents for 600 Families
The city government has been coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) since last week to secure 300 tents that will accommodate at least 600 displaced families. Originally planned as a one-year loan, the National Government has since decided to donate the tents outright to support the relief efforts.
Pasilong sa Paradise in Barangay Guizo has been identified as the primary location for the tent city. Mayor Ouano emphasized that this site was chosen because it already has essential utilities in place, including water access, drainage systems, and electricity - critical infrastructure for temporary housing.
Relocation Process and Challenges
The City Social Welfare Services is currently verifying the exact number of families willing to transfer to the new location. "We are validating these families and those who will move will receive financial assistance from national agencies," Ouano stated during his announcement.
However, the relocation effort faces some challenges. Several barangay captains have expressed hesitation about moving their residents because the proposed site is located far from their original communities. The mayor acknowledged that some residents prefer to stay near their communities despite the risks.
"We cannot force people to move if they do not want to, so we are verifying now who are truly willing to transfer to Pasilong," Ouano explained. For those refusing relocation, the city is encouraging them to stay with family members or neighbors who can accommodate them temporarily.
Long-Term Solutions and No-Build Zones
The tent city is designed as a temporary transitory site while permanent solutions are developed. The city is considering long-term options, including purchasing land outside Mandaue City where property costs are more affordable.
This plan would require assistance from the National Government and approval from the Mandaue City Council. Socialized housing is also being considered as a permanent solution, though existing housing projects in Barangay Tipolo are already allocated for fire victims from Guizo, Mantuyong, and Tipolo.
In a significant safety measure, the city has declared riverbank areas as No-Build Zones, meaning homes previously located there will no longer be allowed for resettlement. The tents were scheduled for delivery on November 25, with relocation and setup expected to begin the following week as final preparations are completed.
