Nearly four years after Typhoon Odette tore through Cebu, thousands of affected families in Carcar City are getting much-needed help to rebuild their homes.

The National Housing Authority (NHA) recently rolled out P57.865 million in cash assistance under its Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP), benefiting families whose houses were totally damaged by the 2021 storm.

The distribution, held from 10-12 December, was led by NHA assistant general manager Alvin S. Feliciano, under the guidance of NHA general manager Joeben A. Tai, and supported by NHA Region VII Regional Manager Engr. Hermes Jude D. Juntilo.

In a statement, Tai said the assistance was carried out in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure government support reaches disaster victims.

“Following the President’s directive, NHA has set aside funds under the EHAP to provide financial assistance to families affected by disasters,” Tai said. “This is our way of helping them recover and begin rebuilding their lives.”

According to NHA data, 5,787 families each received P10,000 to help cover home repairs. Of the total, 2,037 families were assisted on 10 December, 2,038 on 11 December, and 1,712 on 12 December. The beneficiaries came from 15 barangays across Carcar City.

The list of recipients was based on the DSWD Disaster Response Operations Management, Information and Communication report, which was assessed and verified by the local government.

The payout was attended and facilitated by Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro, Carcar City Mayor Mario Patricio P. Barcenas, Vice Mayor Hervy Alejandro “Perkins” B. De Dios, along with officials from the NHA and the local government unit.