Overview
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in the Davao Region has announced the rollout of modular housing units to assist quake-affected families in Davao Oriental. This marks a shift from tent cities to more durable, rapid-deployment shelters in the wake of two earthquakes that struck off the coast of Manay town on October 10.
Rapid Deployment of Modular Shelters
Regional Director Atty. Naiza Mae Delos Santos said the first tranche of 150 modular housing units will be installed beginning this weekend. A portion of these units could be ready to house families as early as Monday next week. The target completion window for the initial 50 shelters is set for November 10–15, with another 50 shelters scheduled for Baganga.
The design and implementation plan follows the Bayanihan Village model used in San Remigio, Cebu, after its own earthquake on September 30. This approach is chosen for its balance of speed, safety, and community integration, providing durable, weather-resistant housing options for those who lost homes.
Where Shelters Will Be Placed
Initial installations are focused on Tarragona, with subsequent shelters planned for Baganga. Discussions with the provincial government are ongoing regarding the relocation site for 50 additional units in Manay. DHSUD-Davao officials say relocation sites are being determined in coordination with local authorities to minimize disruption to affected families.
Why Modular Shelters, Not Tents
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized during his visit to the province that modular units should replace tent cities. The shift aims to provide more secure, weather-resistant, and dignified living conditions while longer-term housing solutions are pursued. Modular units offer quicker assembly, better protection from the elements, and greater resilience in the event of aftershocks or future quakes.
How Families Were Selected
Selection criteria prioritize municipalities with the highest number of completely damaged and partially damaged residences. The latest provincial tally shows Tarragona with 106 totally damaged and 1,368 partially damaged houses; Baganga with 217 totally damaged and 805 partially damaged; and Manay with 129 totally damaged and 3,113 partially damaged homes. Delos Santos noted that the 150 units available at this time are being allocated to areas with the most urgent needs as identified by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC).
Support Materials and Longer-Term Plans
Beyond the shelters themselves, DHSUD-Davao has transferred additional relief supplies to the provincial government, including 200 modular tents, 300 shelter-grade tarpaulins, and 500 shelter fixing kits. Distribution of these materials is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, October 17–18, ensuring that affected families have immediate access to the basics while shelter construction progresses.
Temporary Nature of the Shelters
Officials stress that these modular shelters are a stopgap measure. While the plan considers a potential stay of three to five years for residents, the ultimate objective remains to relocate families into permanent housing. DHSUD-Davao notes that long-term housing development requires coordinated planning at the local government level, land rights, funding, and infrastructure improvements. The timing and breadth of permanent reconstruction will hinge on these factors, alongside ongoing assessments of housing needs and community updates.
Looking Ahead
As the first 50 units begin to serve families, the broader recovery effort in Davao Oriental will continue to evolve. The government’s modular shelter strategy reflects a pragmatic response to sudden displacement, balancing rapid relief with long-term resilience. Community leaders, local officials, and DHSUD-Davao officials will monitor the shelters’ effectiveness, safety, and suitability for residents, adjusting plans as necessary to ensure a smooth transition from emergency accommodation to sustainable housing options.
