SURIGAO CITY – In a significant step towards improving the living conditions of the Sama-Badjau community in Surigao City:In a significant step towards improving the living conditions of the Sama-Badjau community in Surigao City, the United Nations Habitat Philippines (UN-Habitat) and the local government inaugurated the city’s first model housing unit designed specifically for them. The ceremony, held on Monday, marked the opening of a new chapter for the indigenous group, known for their seafaring heritage.
According to Philippines News Agency, the model housing unit, structured as a quadruplex to accommodate four families, was formally handed over to the Sama-Badjau residents. The event saw the presence of UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines, Gustavo Gonzales, and Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II, who presented the certificate of ownership to the Sama-Badjau community represented by their chieftain Dahila Araman.
The housing project, named Huy-anan nan Bajau sa Surigao (Bajau Housing Projec
t), initiated on March 21, involves a total funding of USD300,000, with contributions from the Spanish Agency for International Development and UN-Habitat. The first phase of the project targets the housing needs of 20 Badjau families and is expected to be completed by May 2025.
Mayor Dumlao highlighted the project as a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their background, have access to adequate housing. He also mentioned that more Badjau families would benefit from the second phase of the project.
Chieftain Araman expressed gratitude towards the international donors and the city government for addressing the critical housing needs of the Badjau people. She noted that the project represents a significant step forward in providing permanent homes to the previously homeless members of the community.