THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed its commitment to flood risk reduction, highlighting the resettlement of 57,134 informal settler families (ISFs) from high-risk zones under the Manila Bay Clean-up, Rehabilitation, and Preservation Program (MBCRPP). These ISFs, previously living along waterways and easement areas vulnerable to typhoons and monsoons, were relocated to government-owned housing units to improve their safety and resilience.
Aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s recent directive to intensify efforts in addressing persistent flooding across the country, the DILG emphasized that the MBCRPP is a vital strategy to protect lives, livelihoods, and property, particularly within the Manila Bay Watershed.
Through MBCRPP, the DILG works with other national agencies and local government units (LGUs) to protect lives, livelihoods, and properties in vulnerable areas across the Manila Bay Watershed. Under the program’s LGU Compliance Assessment, the DILG monitors 187 cities and municipalities across Regions III, IV-A, and NCR for adherence to environmental laws and national policies that support Manila Bay rehabilitation.
Flood risk reduction—particularly for ISFs—remains a key priority. Based on latest DILG data, 23.93% of the 238,747 identified ISFs have been relocated. NCR leads in relocation success with 36.56% of its ISFs resettled, followed by Region IV-A (21.06%).
Thr DILG said 61 LGUs have completed socialized housing projects (SHPs), 52 SHPs are under construction, and 90 are in the proposal stage.
Meanwhile, 182 LGUs have established a Local Housing Board (LHB), 133 have an approved Local Shelter Plan (LSP), and 46 have SHPs backed by a Resettlement and Relocation Action Plan (RRAP)
To sustain progress, a stakeholder orientation was conducted last March, focusing on strategies to safeguard cleared areas, prevent ISF re-occupation, and promote humane, inclusive engagement.
The DILG calls on all LGUs within the Manila Bay Watershed to accelerate resettlement programs and ensure the sustainability and people-centered focus of Manila Bay’s rehabilitation, in line with President Marcos’ call for long-term flood solutions.
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