Aquino inspects model unit of in-city relocation program

PHOTO by Kristine Sabillo/INQUIRER.net

Manila, Philippines — Instead of relocating families to provinces outside Metro Manila, the government is now starting to work on in-city relocation for informal settlers.

President Benigno Aquino III was among those who inspected the Estero de San Miguel medium-rise building (MRB) in Manila on Wednesday, a recently constructed model unit in accordance to the government’s on-site, near-city relocation plan.

The “micro” MRB, which fits into the narrow lots outside the 3-meter easement along esteros, was conceptualized by architect Felino Palafox and implemented by architect Albert Zambrano of the Mapua Institute of Technology, School of Architecture.

It is supposed to be energy-efficient and more resistant to floods and earthquakes.

Each MRB will occupy a 24 square meter lot and and accommodate two informal settler families. The first floor will serve as a “flood buffer” and area for income-generating activities.

Meanwhile, the second and third floors will house the units alloted for urban poor families.

Other officials who joined the President during the event were Interior Secretary Mar Roxas II and Social Welfare Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman.