National Housing Authority (NHA) general manager Joeben Tai spearheaded the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Day through the reaffirmation of the NHA’s commitment to improving the lives of IPs nationwide, highlighting its efforts in providing culturally sensitive shelter to various ethnic groups.
“For me, our IPs are really close to my heart because they symbolize the rich tradition and culture of the Philippines. It is important to us that the housing projects are in line with your lifestyle and beliefs and go through a thorough study in collaboration with your local government and the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples,” he said.
Under its Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples, the agency has successfully constructed and delivered 3,535 housing units to different ethnic groups, alongside livelihood interventions for the families’ economic gains and communities’ sustainability.
As a demonstration of commitment to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas goals, the NHA continuously provides housing and essential services to all Filipinos, including IP groups from far-flung areas.
The NHA successfully awarded housing units to IP families in Davao del Norte, Sarangani, Misamis Oriental, and Zamboanga del Sur, including the Mansaka, Mandaya, Kagan, Dibabawon, Manobo, B’laan, Subanen, Kaolo, Bagobo, Hiligaynon, Higaonon, Mangguangan, Tagakaolo and Ata-Manobo.
