The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), in partnership with the Mandaue City Government, has begun relocating families who lost their homes to a newly built modular housing community in Barangay Guizo. This initiative is part of a national government directive to establish a model modular community, offering a fresh start for those affected by severe flooding.
A Presidential Directive for a Complete Modular City
DHSUD Assistant Secretary Johnson Domingo stated that the Mandaue City project aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to develop comprehensive modular cities. The goal is to provide not just shelters, but complete communities with essential facilities.
"In Mandaue City, we are building 200 modular homes because the directive of President Marcos Jr. is to make this a modular city," Domingo explained. The homes come equipped with basic necessities like water and electricity and will include community facilities such as basketball and volleyball courts.
Furthermore, Domingo highlighted that various government agencies will collaborate to support the residents. The Department of Health (DOH) will provide health services, while TESDA will offer livelihood and skills training programs to help beneficiaries rebuild their lives.
Phased Rollout and Immediate Relocation
The project will be implemented in phases, starting with an initial batch of 50 units. An additional 150 units are scheduled to be completed in the following year.
Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito 'Jonkie' Ouano announced that the first batch of families is set to move in on Monday, December 22, 2025. This initial group comprises 14 families from Barangay Alang-Alang and Umapad who were severely affected by flooding.
"We ask for their understanding because the process is not easy, and I do not want to relocate the evacuees unless the place is truly ready," Mayor Ouano said. He emphasized that the new modular homes present a much better living situation compared to remaining in evacuation tents, which are easily penetrated by rain and become extremely hot.
A New Dawn After Typhoon Tino's Devastation
For the beneficiaries, this relocation marks a significant and positive change after the hardship they endured due to the massive flooding brought by Typhoon Tino on November 4, 2025.
One of the recipients, Guerlie Coyoca from Barangay Umapad, expressed her profound gratitude. She recounted how all their belongings and their house were swept away during the flood.
"I am very thankful that I am one of the beneficiaries of this housing program under Mayor Jonkie Ouano," Coyoca shared. "Our old house was completely washed away, and we only saved a few pieces of clothing."
She also recalled the difficult conditions at the Umapad Elementary School evacuation center, where floodwaters nearly reached the second floor. Through this new modular home, she hopes her family will finally have a safe and decent place to live without the constant fear of flooding.
