Agusan Norte to offer more houses to former rebels
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY – A huge step towards lasting peace and development was witnessed as Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante led the groundbreaking and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Inter-Local Agency Partnership (ILAP) for housing of former rebels or friends rescued (FRs) at Sitio Talaganahaw, Brgy. Talo-ao, Buenavista.
This transformative initiative, a beacon of hope for FRs, is designed to provide sustainable housing and livelihood opportunities. The project will see the construction of 123 housing units, each with a 40m² floor area on an 80m² lot. The initial phase will commence this year with 10 units funded by a P10-million allocation from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), followed by 38 more housing units in 2026.
Recognizing the need for long-term self-sufficiency, TESDA Agusan del Norte will spearhead specialized training in carpentry and masonry, empowering FRs to contribute to the construction of their own homes while securing future employment. PENRO also committed to supplying construction materials and exploring further funding opportunities for additional housing units.
Mayor Joselito T. Roble emphasized the local government’s dedication to inclusive development and expressed gratitude for the collaboration between agencies. He highlighted key initiatives such as Buenavista’s Kumustahan sa Barangay program, which delivers free essential services across all barangays, and the Bisi-Bisita sa Barangay initiative, which fosters direct engagement with residents.
Amante, acknowledging past challenges, reassured FRs of the government’s unwavering commitment to their welfare.
“Pasensya kaayo if naa mi kakulangon sa inyoha sauna. Kami naningkamot nga mahatag among pagkukulang. (Apologies if we had shortcomings in the past. We are doing our best to make up for them),” she said.
She further emphasized their freedom of settlement, stating: “Dili tamo pugson pag-puyo diri, if naa mo mga kaugalingon nga yuta, maski aha pana, atong balayan kay responsibilidad namo nga maserbisyohan kamo ug mamuyo nga malinawon. (We will not force you to live here. If you have your own land, no matter where it is, we will build houses for you because it is our responsibility to serve you and ensure you live in peace.)”
To enhance accessibility, the provincial government also announced that OPAPRU will fund the concreting of roads leading to Sitio Talaganahaw, with the province providing a counterpart for further road improvements to the FRs’ housing community.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Roselle Polinar expressed heartfelt appreciation.
“Salamat kaayo sa ato provincial government sa Agusan del Norte ug sa mga agencies nga mi tabang aron matuman among pangandoy nga maka balay najud ug dili na magtago sa bukid. (Thank you so much to the provincial government of Agusan del Norte and to the agencies that helped make our dream of having a home come true. We will no longer hide in the mountains).”
She assured the government of their commitment to peaceful reintegration.
“Maningkamot mi nga maka barog sa among kaugalingon nga malinawon aron amo pod ni ma-share sa uban pa sa bukid kung gi-unsa mi pag-pangga sa gobyerno. (We will strive to stand on our own peacefully so that we can also share with others in the mountains how the government has cared for us),” she said.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Punong Barangay Abelardo S. CaΓ±ete welcomed the FRs as they embarked on a fresh start, integrating into a peaceful and supportive community.
The event was attended by Sangguniang Bayan members, Barangay Talo-ao officials, barangay captains from Buenavista, and representatives from national agencies, ensuring security and a smooth transition for FRs as they begin their journey toward stability and prosperity. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
