Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino underscored the need for safe and sustainable relocation sites for communities affected by natural disasters and development projects.
Speaking at the turnover of three newly constructed multi-purpose buildings in Quezon City, Tolentino reiterated his advocacy for providing decent housing and long-term relocation solutions for displaced families.
“It is not enough to relocate the residents from hazard zones to safer places. We must also ensure that their basic needs would be addressed in their new homes in the relocation site,” he emphasized.
Among his key initiatives was the provision of housing units for 450 families displaced by the 2020 Taal Volcano eruption. The housing project, located in Talisay, Batangas, was inaugurated in 2023.
“The 450 families were relocated from their community in Volcano Island and are now safely residing outside Taal’s 14-kilometer danger zone, where there’s a school and a barangay to cater to their needs,” Tolentino said.
He also championed a housing project for residents of Brgy. Mauraro, Guinobatan, Albay, ensuring their safety from Mt. Mayon’s volcanic activity. Similar initiatives were carried out in Cagayan de Oro and Manggahan Floodway, Pasig.
During the Quezon City turnover, Tolentino highlighted that the new two-story multi-purpose buildings would provide additional space for delivering essential community services.
“These can serve the barangay in times of calamities and community events,” he noted.
The buildings were turned over to Barangays Holy Spirit, Payatas, and Bagong Silangan on Thursday afternoon.
Quezon City Second District Councilor Mikey Belmonte expressed gratitude to Tolentino for supporting the city’s efforts in improving the welfare of its constituents.
A former Tagaytay City Mayor and Chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Tolentino brings extensive experience in disaster management and community rehabilitation.