CEBU, Philippines - Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman believed that the restoration of normal lives of Boholanos, five months after the 7.2-magnitude earthquake destroyed the province, is "more on its way" to complete recovery.
"Rehabilitation in Bohol is even more than 50 percent, and they (Boholanos) are nearing the completion of recovery. For instance, reconstruction of damaged infrastructure is underway. Construction of around 8,000 houses in 16 local government units," Soliman said.
The secretary said she is now "confident" that Bohol will deliver its target completion by the time of the first anniversary of the earthquake this October 15.
"Rehab is more than 50 percent. Bridges are all fixed. Roads are fixed. Tourists are back. In fact, three cruise ships have visited since the earthquake. Bohol is already on its last phase in rebuilding the public structures, hospitals. Restoration of the churches is also underway," Soliman said.
The quake damaged a total of 26 local government units, 17 of them badly-hit with major public infrastructure destroyed apart from the houses ruined and collapsed.
Mayor Lloyd Lopez of Loon, one of the hardest hit towns, confirmed that the reconstruction efforts in his town has started, save for the health facilities.
"For now, we continue preparations for housing or shelter cluster project in Bohol, including Loon town. We have identified 1,255 totally damaged houses, each to be replaced with one full house unit worth P75,000," Lopez said.
Non-government organizations and international sponsors pledged to finance the reconstruction of 421 houses, while the DSWD will take care of the more than 800 others, said the mayor, adding that the government will give priority to low-income families. (FREEMAN)