Housing the urban poor is a problem in San Carlos City.
In studying the issues, the local government recognized
that lot ownership is a key component in solving the housing
problem. With an increase in the Internal Revenue Allotment
(IRA) share, the city bought private lands as part of the
30-year comprehensive city plan. To provide housing affordable
to the poorest members of the population, the city provided
an affordable payment plan. Beneficiaries were required
to pay only P5.00 per day, for five days a week. This continues
until the awardee covers the full cost of the 54-square
meter lot that he is to own, free of downpayments or instalments.
Additionally, the government undertakes complete land development,
including the construction of individual septic tanks, toilets,
access roads, drainage and water system, power lines, recreational
facilities, day care center and school buildings.
Of the 3,233 squatter population, the first beneficiaries
were the 436 families who squatted on government lands.
Most of these people were victims of a fire in 1992, currently
working as pedicab drivers, fish and vegetable vendors,
construction and dock workers. The housing project kept
in mind the beneficiaries’ sources of livelihood.
The new housing development is located close to the city
and accessible to public transportation. As such, there
is no disruption to the people’s economic activities.
The program resulted to the establishment of a compact,
well-planned and organized community. The change in the
beneficiaries’ built environments were noticeable;
shanties were turned into concrete structures within a few
months after relocation. Each lot owner was encouraged to
improve their own dwellings. Most planted at least two trees
within their property. As a community, the people established
a multi-purpose cooperative and a hollow block business.
Furthermore, they began a partnership with a non-government
organization, conducting livelihood seminars and trainings
to develop and upgrade the capabilities of the beneficiaries.
