Agusan del Norte: Environment officials in Agusan del Norte will donate 16,494 board feet of confiscated lumber to support a housing project for former communist rebels, authorities announced Thursday. The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Nasipit said the materials, seized during 2023 anti-illegal logging operations, would help construct homes in Sitio Talaganahaw, Barangay Talo-ao, Buenavista town. The project aims to provide 123 housing units through a partnership between provincial and municipal governments.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has allocated PHP10 million (USD180,000) for the initial construction of 18 units this year, with remaining homes scheduled for 2026 completion. The inter-agency initiative represents part of the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program for rebel returnees. Local officials confirmed the lumber meets construction standards and would be supplemented with additional materials as needed.
