153 Badjao families to move to Cordova 2nd quarter of this yr.

At least 153 Badjao families who were victims of a fire in Barangay Mambaling will soon be relocated to Tongo Island in Cordova town by the second quarter of the year, said the National Commission on Indigenous People.

These Badjaos, or popularly known as "Sea Gypsies" lost their homes to a fire in barangay Mambaling in April last year, will soon occupy 7.2 hectares in Tongo Island. They belong to the Side B Group under Chieftain Felicito Asamsa, following a resolution expressing their willingness to transfer to the island.

"They will be provided with a better place, a good living condition. Houses will be constructed and basic services will be provided," said NCIP Development Management Officer Hazel Torrefiel. The village would also have a Day Care and Health Center.

The Memorandum of Understanding for the transfer was signed last year by project stakeholders including the Cebu City Government, Municipality of Cordova, Badjaos, Presentation Sisters, Department of Education, National Housing Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Pagtambayayong Foundation, Badjao Baptist Mission, Badjao Tribal Mission, Presidential Assistant for the Visayas and NCIP.

Most Badjaos in the city flock the city streets to beg. Authorities believe their presence in the streets do not only obstruct traffic but also affect the cleanliness of the streets and sidewalks. Their presence also poses a hazard to motorists and beggars alike.

The Badjaos inhabit the shores and waters of the Sulu archipelago. They are found in many of the coastal settlements dotting the Sulu archipelago particularly in Jolo, Tawi-Tawi, and Sitangkai. Others are scattered in Davao, Surigao, Zamboanga, Basilan, Bohol, Cebu, and Manila in search for livelihood.

The first phase of the relocation project would include Site Development and the construction of the first 80 houses.