Malaysian firm builds houses for 'Sendong' victims

MANILA, Philippines - A Malaysian company has funded the construction of some 200 homes for the victims of tropical storm “Sendong” in Cagayan de Oro City.

Paulino Soo, Berjaya Corp. Berhad country representative, said the company has donated some P20 million to Gawad Kalinga that has the competence and reputation to undertake low-cost housing projects.

Soo said the housing project, to be called Berjaya GK Village, is expected to be completed in May.

“We have received instructions from our chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun, to fast-track the completion of what will be called Berjaya GK Village to get the people out of makeshift houses and evacuation camps quickly,” Soo said.

“They have already suffered so much and deserve at the very least normalcy in a home that is safe from future natural threats like Sendong,” he said.

Sendong lashed Northern Mindanao and Central Visayas in December last year, leaving thousands of families homeless and scores of people dead.

Soo said they are looking at other ways to further help the storm victims.

“Our chairman has been keenly monitoring the situation in Cagayan de Oro and really wants to make a difference in the lives of those in need, not only here but all over the world,” he said.

The Philippine units of Berjaya operate largely in Luzon. The local group has Papa John’s Pizza, Berjaya Manila Hotel in Makati, Philippine Gaming Management Corp., Friendster, and Loadcentral.

“We honor Berjaya for taking initiative for the next and urgent stage of reconstruction and relocation for the families affected by the disaster. This partnership demonstrates the vision of Berjaya in driving businesses that have great social impact,” Luis Oquiñena, executive director of Gawad Kalinga, said.