Mayor Greg Gasataya led the distribution of shelter and relief assistance to 20 families from Purok Balinday, Barangay 2, on Saturday, January 24.
The families were recently relocated to the Progreso Village Relocation Site II (PVRS II) in Barangay Vista Alegre.
The distribution is part of the city government’s ongoing initiative to move residents out of high-risk areas along Mambuloc Creek and near the coast – zones prone to flooding and other natural hazards, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office (BCCO) said.
Gasataya earlier expressed gratitude to the 37 Purok Balinday families for their voluntary and peaceful relocation.
He noted that many had lived in the area for decades, facing recurring danger during storms and calamities.
All households received ₱10,000 in financial assistance to support their move, he said.
Of the 37 families, 14 have already settled at PVRS II, with the remaining 17 scheduled to relocate in the coming weeks.
On January 14, the 20 pre-qualified beneficiaries were formally awarded individual lots, granting them legal and secure spaces to build their permanent homes.
The City Engineer’s Office provided specialized equipment for dismantling existing structures and hauling materials, following Notices to Vacate issued in October 2025 and extended at the residents’ request.
A January 21 site visit by city officials found the relocation lots nearly fully prepared, with 8 families already breaking ground on their home construction.
The city has committed to gather all beneficiaries for a meeting soon to discuss additional support for site preparation and housing development, the BCCO said.
During Saturday’s turnover each family received 10 colored galvanized iron sheets and butane stoves.
They also received food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) plus kitchen kits complete with utensils, cookware, and dining ware.
To further ease the families’ transition, Gasataya announced the city will cover the ₱1,600 water connection fee per household.
Solar lights will also be prioritized at the site as a temporary safety measure while permanent electrical and infrastructure facilities are finalized.
The city government also called on all barangays to help maintain waterways and prevent the reconstruction of illegal structures, as part of Bacolod’s comprehensive flood mitigation and public safety programs, thew BCCO said.*