With the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD), the Housing Arm of the BARMM, and the Local Government Unit (LGU), the construction of 50 resettlement housing units starts soon in Sitio Malingao, Barangay Nituan, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte after the successful groundbreaking ceremony held on site on March 10, 2024.

Director General Esmael W. Ebrahim highlighted the unique nature of the project, describing it as three-fold. Each family identified as deserving beneficiaries will receive a free house, land, and title, ensuring a comprehensive support system for those in need as the project is a flagship program of the BARMM under the housing first policy advocated by Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim.

Meanwhile, Hon. Mayor Abdulcahar P. Ibay underscored the importance of selecting beneficiaries meticulously to guarantee the successful execution of the project.

“It is imperative to accurately identify the target beneficiaries to ensure that the housing units are allocated to deserving and rightful families,” Mayor Ibay emphasized.

“We will oversee the project and adhere to the planned guidelines in its implementation. Any shortcomings will be addressed promptly by the LGU,” he affirmed.

According to Engr. Zainodin A. Buisan, Chief of the Planning and Design Division, the project was funded through the General Appropriations Act of the Bangsamoro (GAAB) 2024, and it aims to construct houses with each unit priced at PHP836,550.00.

These units will feature a 6×8 square-meter floor area, three bedrooms, a living and dining area, a porch, a service area at the back, and a common bathroom. The total cost of the project amounts to PHP 41,827,500.00.

Hon. Vice Mayor Adnan C. Biruar warmly extended a heartfelt welcome, reflecting the municipality’s deep-rooted passion for progress and development.

On a different note, MHSD-Maguindanao Provincial Director Noroden S. Abdullah opened the program, emphasizing that infrastructure projects such as the construction of housing units serve as the cornerstone of development’s transformative power.

“The secret magic of development is infrastructure,” he remarked.

Prior to the official groundbreaking ceremony, Director for Operations and Management Services Salem C. Demuna wrapped up the program, inspiring all participants to contribute towards shaping a better image and a brighter future for the Bangsamoro.