A significant step in the peace process was taken in Maguindanao del Sur as officials broke ground on a new housing community for former combatants. The ceremony signals the start of construction for 100 homes dedicated to ex-fighters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
A New Chapter at Camp Omar
The Bangsamoro government, through its Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD), is leading the project at Camp Omar in Lipongo village, Datu Hoffer. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Thursday, December 4, with key officials in attendance.
Deputy Minister Aldin Asiri of the MHSD stated on Saturday, December 6, that this initiative reflects the regional government's firm commitment to the normalization track. The beneficiaries are former members of the 105th Base Command of the MILF's Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).
"The Barmm government is working hard so that we can provide decent housing, especially to the Mujahideen," Asiri emphasized in a public statement.
Features of the Housing Community
The project will transform a 3.5-hectare parcel of land donated by the Municipal Government of Datu Hoffer. Funding comes from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region's Special Development Fund (SDF).
Each housing unit will offer a comfortable living space with the following features:
- A total area of 48 square meters.
- Three bedrooms, a living area, and a dining area.
- A kitchen, a comfort room, and a porch.
Beyond the houses, the development plan includes seven vital community facilities to support the residents' daily lives and well-being.
Building a Complete Community
The project goes beyond just houses, aiming to create a fully functional neighborhood. The planned community support facilities include:
- A covered court with a stage and bleachers.
- A concrete perimeter fence and an archway.
- An access road with a drainage system.
- Solar-powered streetlights for illumination.
- A Level II water system for reliable supply.
- A fully equipped health station.
- A multipurpose building for gatherings.
Datu Hoffer Mayor Prince Sufri Norabbie Ampatuan hailed the project as a powerful symbol. He stated it represents hope, stability, and a brighter future for the MILF members residing in the camp.
The ceremony was jointly led by the MHSD and the SDF-Project Management Office under the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA). Attendees included BARMM officials, representatives from security forces, the local municipal government, and the partner construction firm.
