STO. TOMAS, Pampanga — Twenty-one families rendered homeless by fire in Barangay San Bartolome early this year have relocated to their new homes at the Progreso Community Housing Project Phase 1, a joint initiative of the Municipal Government of Sto. Tomas and the Provincial Government of Pampanga, led by Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda and Vice Gov. Dennis “Delta” Pineda.
The fire, which occurred on Jan. 7, 2026, razed several houses in Purok 5, leaving 21 families—or more than 100 individuals—homeless, according to the provincial social welfare and development office.
The prompt response of the LGU, in partnership with the provincial government, private donors, non-government organizations, and other stakeholders, facilitated the establishment of a permanent housing community for affected residents.
The Capitol allocated an initial funding of P500,000 for construction, while businessman-philanthropist Rodolfo “Tatay Bong” Pineda donated five housing units valued at P1.2 million.
Sited on a 1.3-hectare property in Barangay San Bartolome donated by the Sambo family, the housing project was formally inaugurated and blessed on March 27, in a ceremony attended by Governor Pineda, Mayor John Sambo, 4th District board member Kaye Naguit, municipal officials, and partner stakeholders.
“Kapitolyo, munisipyo, barangay, at mga negosyante nagsama-sama para maisakatuparan ito. Kapag nagtutulungan, nakakatulong tayo sa mga kababayan natin sa oras ng krisis,” said the governor.
Each housing unit measures 28 to 30 square meters and is equipped with essential amenities, including a private toilet and bath, kitchen, and double-deck bed. The Municipal Government of Sto. Tomas has committed to assist beneficiaries in securing land ownership through proper titling.
“This is an opportunity to improve the lives of our less fortunate citizens. One of the conditions in donating this land to the LGU was that the municipality would cover the costs of land titling,” said Mayor Sambo.
The project also includes a playground for children, while beneficiary families received additional assistance, including half a cavan of rice from the provincial government and towels from the Municipal Government.
The completion of the Progreso Community Housing Project highlights strong collaboration between government and private sectors in addressing the needs of disaster-affected communities. Pampanga PIO /Photos: Daniel Ombina
