BACOLOD CITY – At least 145 families from Barangay 27, whose homes were destroyed in a fire last September, have finally received crucial financial aid to help them rebuild their lives. The National Housing Authority (NHA), through its Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP), in partnership with the Bacolod City Government, distributed a total of P4.39 million in cash assistance on December 4.
Immediate Relief for Displaced Families
The distribution ceremony was held at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD). Of the 145 beneficiaries, 144 families whose houses were completely destroyed received P30,000 each. One family, whose home sustained partial damage, received P10,000.
Mayor Gasataya emphasized that the cash aid is meant to provide direct support as families continue the difficult process of reconstruction. "To everyone, our commitment is there that we will continue to give support and help each other for Barangay 27 to rise up again. What is important is to do what we have committed," the mayor stated during the event.
A Vision for Permanent Recovery
Beyond the immediate financial relief, Mayor Gasataya revealed that he has already presented a comprehensive on-site housing development plan to barangay officials and the affected residents. This long-term proposal envisions a proper residential community with organized road networks and an efficient drainage system on the fire-ravaged site.
The mayor acknowledged that realizing this plan requires a process. The affected lot, measuring 7,787 square meters, is owned by the Philippine Alien Property Administration. The city has already sent a letter to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to explore a potential partnership. The proposal includes seeking a President Proclamation for the donation of the government-owned land to facilitate the housing project.
National and Local Government Working in Tandem
Chelzy Jane Caspy, a Community Support officer from the NHA, explained that the purpose of EHAP is to provide timely help to those affected by both natural and man-made calamities. "This assistance was given so you can slowly rebuild the homes that were taken away by the fire," she told the beneficiaries.
For the recipients, like 67-year-old Delsa Allaga, the aid is a vital step toward normalcy. Her family is still living in a temporary shelter. "We will use this assistance to finish rebuilding our home and finally remove the tarpaulins," Allaga shared, highlighting the practical impact of the support.
Mayor Gasataya assured the community that the City Government remains committed to working with national agencies to bolster the ongoing recovery and reconstruction efforts following the September 12, 2025 fire.
