A groundbreaking ceremony was held on March 12, 2025, in Agoncillo, Batangas, marking the start of construction for 150 free housing units, valued at P45 million.
Each affected family will be awarded a house unit occupying a 50-square-meter lot, costing P300,000. Many of the families who lost their homes when Kristine barreled through Luzon in late October 2024 are still living in temporary evacuation shelters.
The initiative was spearheaded by Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, through Provincial Administrator Wilfredo Racelis, along with Agoncillo Mayor Cinderella Valenton-Reyes and FPIP vice president Ricky Carandang.
The Agoncillo LGU donated a 1-hectare lot for the project, while FPIP is leading a fundraising campaign among private sector donors, including FPIP locators. So far, 32 housing units have already been funded.
“This is FPIP’s way of showing support not only to our proactive LGUs but also to our fellow Batangueños,” Carandang said.
The project also received backing from Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, which will construct the homes and oversee community development efforts.
Other key supporters include Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, Agoncillo Vice Mayor Daniel Reyes, businessman James Chan, and Lima Estate.
According to Valenton-Reyes, more than 400 families in Agoncillo were left homeless by Typhoon Kristine.
With Sulong Batangas as an ongoing initiative, organizers aim to expand the project to accommodate more victims and help rebuild lives. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
