Hamtic:Antique The Antique provincial government is planning to construct bamboo-based housing units for 29 informal settler families in Barangay Mapatag, Hamtic. This initiative aims to provide sustainable housing solutions for those relocated within the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Provincial Housing Affairs and Resettlement Office (PHARO), led by Eby Archangel Butiong, is collaborating with the Homeless People's Federation of the Philippines Inc. (HPFPI) to develop this housing project. HPFPI is known for supporting homeless and informal settler communities across the nation.

The province intends to model the project after a similar socialized housing endeavor in Iloilo City, inspired by a visit to HPFPI's Balay Kawayan (Bamboo Housing) in the San Isidro Relocation Site. The Iloilo project uses Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks and Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete housing.

Butiong stated that the availability of bamboo in Antique presents an opportunity for affordable construction. The provincial government, with its NGO partner, plans to secure funding from donors, supplemented by provincial allocations.

In addition to the housing project, Antique will host its inaugural Bamboo Summit on December 14 at CityMall. This event, part of the Binirayan Festival 2026, aims to gather bamboo industry stakeholders and local government representatives. The summit will feature presentations on bamboo innovations, including the housing project, and discussions on marketing and technological advancements in the bamboo sector.

The University of Antique will also participate, showcasing its bamboo products. An exhibit of various bamboo items made in Antique will be on display from December 14 to 22 at CityMall, coinciding with the Binirayan Festival 2026 Pasundayag.