“Dapat wala nang barong-barong.”
This according to Quezon City Councilor Winnie Castelo as he shared his vision of a world-class city that must necessarily include not just houses for the poor but decent housing for everyone.
“The house does not have to be big or expensive, but it must at least be decent and dignified, because a dignified life begins in a dignified home,” added Castelo.
The Quezon City Councilor, a former Congressman representing the city’s second district, outlined five basic steps on how to solve what he called the “tila walang katapusang problema sa palupa at pabahay.”
First, a complete census must be conducted to determine exactly how many informal settlers are residing in various parts of the city.
Second, a comprehensive inventory must be developed to identify in detail all lands that may be utilized for a housing program for the poor.
Third, a land and zonal classification must be instituted to ascertain which of the available lands are best for housing communities that considers access to livelihood, education, transportation, and other essentials.
Fourth, a technical study must be performed to establish the best mode of acquisition and development for lands to be used for the housing program, whether CMP, MRB, NHA, HDMF, direct purchase and sale, among other options.
Fifth, a direct coordination with the landowners must be initiated to find the best or most suitable way the government can work with them.
“Sa ganitong klaseng problema, kailangan magtulungan ang tao, ang gobyerno, at ang pribadong sektor. Walang ibang paraan. Kailangan magkausap, magkasundo, at magtulungan ang lahat,” said Castelo.
“A dignified society is composed of dignified people. Some may be rich. Some may be poor. But everybody must be dignified. When there is dignity, there is respect, understanding, and acceptance. Everybody wins,” concluded Castelo.
