Iloilo City prioritizes informal settlers’ housing

ILOILO CITY — The local government of Iloilo City is set to launch several new housing projects aimed at relocating informal settlers from danger zones and coastal areas to safer, more permanent homes.

The city’s comprehensive housing initiative, dubbed “PASILONG: Pabalay para sa Pamilyang Ilonggo,” will prioritize residents living along frequently flooded riverbanks and those displaced by fires and government infrastructure projects, according to city spokesperson Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal and Iloilo City Local Housing Office head Atty. Peter Jason Millare.

The local government will directly fund the planned Batiano Village housing project in Barangay West Habog-Habog, which is expected to benefit at least 173 families. The funding covers the construction of houses and basic infrastructure.

Beyond Batiano Village, the city is preparing to build over 2,000 additional housing units through four major projects: the Uswag Residential Complex, the Uswag 4PH Condominium Complex in Barangay San Isidro, Jaro, and the Westville Residences in Barangay Hibao-an, Mandurriao.

Millare said that the Westville Residences will provide 86 housing units, which will be constructed by Henber Realty Development Corporation as part of its socialized housing requirements.

The city will assist with design and road access but will not use city funds for the construction.

Meanwhile, the Uswag Residential Complex and Uswag 4PH Condominium Complex will deliver a combined 1,917 units in partnership with Eon Realty and Development Corp. and the National Housing Authority.

Iloilo City currently manages 46 relocation and resettlement sites. The city has also acquired nearly 30,000 square meters of additional land in preparation for future housing projects to meet the growing demand for safe shelter.