DARAGA, Albay -– Compassion International and Habitat for Humanity Philippines (HUP) have turned over 53 duplex houses to as many families who have been resettled at the Anislag Resettlement Site in Barangay Anislag here. The turnover ceremony was held last Jan. 25.

        The 53 lucky families were among the 4,769 families from Daraga town who were rendered homeless after super typhoon Reming devastated the Bicol region last Nov. 30.

        The 53 homes were funded by Compassion International and built by Habitat for Humanity Philippines.

        In an interview, Engr. James Roaring, project manager of Compassion International Bicol Rehabilitation Project, said that each duplex unit measures 27 square meters (6.5 m x 7 m) and costs P95, 000. It is made of steel frame, reinforced concrete and G.I. sheets.

        Each unit can accommodate one family but the homeowner has the option to build a mezzanine to provide more space for a growing family.

        The beneficiaries did not pay for the construction of their homes but they were required to supply labor as their counterpart.

        During the house dedication ceremonies, Bob Thorp, Compassion International complementary intervention director, said; “It’s a joy to be here, to see these beautiful homes that you have built. Compassion could not do it alone. The mayor could not do it himself. You could not build your homes alone. But the Lord said that we should come together as a group.”

        He added: “We work with local Churches here. I think we have 19 or 20 housing projects in Bicol.”

        In an interview, Daraga Mayor Cicero Triunfante said he was very happy and grateful to Compassion, Habitat and the numerous donors who have been responsible for the completion of the project.

        “I’m very happy because everybody, including the womenfolk, worked under the spirit of “bayanihan”, the mayor said. “They (homeowners) can proudly say that they are part in building their own homes,” Triunfante added.

        The mayor further said that Compassion International and Habitat are still willing to build 50 more homes as the municipal government has available lots.

        Triunfante also revealed that after providing the settlers with comfortable homes, the next step is to provide them with the skills needed for their livelihood.

        Meanwhile, in Naga City, Compassion and Habitat were scheduled to turn over 50 duplex houses to beneficiaries in Barangay Balatas in the afternoon of the same day, Jan. 25.