Daanbantayan: The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is expediting the completion of a second Bayanihan Village in Daanbantayan, Cebu, following an order by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide housing for families displaced by a recent powerful earthquake.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos Jr. inspected the first Bayanihan Village in Barangay Poblacion, San Remigio, where DHSUD has installed modular shelter units (MSUs) for families affected by the quake. The MSUs have been handed over to the local government and are now occupied by initial beneficiaries. The San Remigio Bayanihan Village was completed within a week, thanks to coordinated efforts by various government agencies.

Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling stated in a news release that the construction of additional Bayanihan Villages had already commenced prior to the turnover of the San Remigio site. The accelerated construction is in direct response to President Marcos Jr.’s directive for quick action and immediate assistance for affected residents.

Aliling also mentioned that earthquake victims in Daanbantayan will soon have access to safer and more durable shelters. Following his visit with the President in San Remigio, Aliling traveled to Barangay Pajo, Daanbantayan, to assess the progress of the ongoing construction at the second Bayanihan Village. The site preparation is being carried out in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the installation of MSUs is underway. Daanbantayan was severely affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30.

Aliling emphasized the collaboration between DHSUD’s Regional Office 7 and the Daanbantayan local government unit to ensure the swift completion of the Bayanihan Village, in line with the President’s directive.

Families who have received MSUs in the San Remigio Bayanihan Village have expressed satisfaction and relief upon receiving their new homes.