The Resettlement Assistance Program for Local Government Units (RAP-LGU) was established by the National Housing Authority (NHA) as part of the Philippine government’s broader effort to address the growing housing needs of vulnerable and displaced communities. This program stems from the mandates of the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992 (Republic Act No. 7279), which calls for equitable access to decent housing, especially for informal settler families (ISFs) affected by infrastructure development, natural hazards, or court-ordered evictions. The primary goal of RAP-LGU is to provide both financial and technical support to local governments in creating sustainable and safe resettlement sites that promote inclusive urban development.
Understanding this program is essential because it directly impacts families living in danger zones, along waterways, or in areas affected by national projects. RAP-LGU ensures that no Filipino family is left behind by empowering LGUs to offer secure housing solutions—without imposing direct costs on beneficiaries. It also contributes not only to better living conditions but also to national progress, disaster risk reduction, and poverty alleviation. If you or your community have ever faced eviction, displacement due to infrastructure projects, or lived in danger zones like esteros or railroad tracks, then you’ll be interested in learning about RAP-LGU—including how it works, who qualifies, what’s covered, and how it benefits you and your community.
Program Overview
The RAP-LGU is a housing assistance program of the NHA that provides fund contributions to LGUs so they can develop land and construct housing for families in need. The goal is to ensure safe, livable, and sustainable relocation communities while supporting LGUs in managing resettlement projects.
The program specifically addresses housing issues caused by:
- Eviction due to court orders
- Displacement from government infrastructure projects
- Living in danger areas (e.g., waterways, esteros, railroads)
- Other low-income families identified as eligible
And the best part? There’s no direct cost to beneficiaries, as the housing development is funded by the government through the LGUs.
What Does the Fund Contribution Cover?
The fund contribution from NHA can be used in three ways:
- Land Development, including:
- Land surveys and lot titling
- Earthworks and roadworks
- Drainage and sewerage systems (includes separate lines and Anaerobic Baffled Reactor for treatment)
- Water supply distribution or communal water facilities
- Electrical distribution system (including solar-powered street lights)
- Housing Construction, and
- Both Land Development and Housing Construction
Development Standards and Parameters
To guide LGUs, NHA has set standards for both land development and housing construction (usually a rowhouse model). These standards now include:
- Increased floor area
- Room partitions for better privacy
- Solar street lights
- Consideration of women and children’s needs
There’s also flexibility in design as long as it meets the minimum standards and stays within the approved cost.
Unit Cost Estimates
Under the program, the unit cost may vary depending on the type of fund contribution and the scope of development.
- For land development only, the estimated cost per unit ranges from ₱81,200 to ₱93,800;
- For housing construction only, the unit cost is between ₱315,200 and ₱406,200; while
- For both land development and housing construction, the combined unit cost is estimated at ₱396,400 to ₱500,000.
Based on these estimates,
- A ₱25 million fund can support the development of approximately:
- 267 to 307 units for land development only,
- 62 to 79 units for housing construction only, or
- 50 to 63 units for both land development and housing construction.
- Meanwhile, a ₱50 million fund can cover:
- Around 533 to 615 units for land development only,
- 123 to 158 units for housing construction only, or
- 100 to 126 units for both land development and housing construction.
Note: These cost parameters are subject to annual review and may be updated accordingly.
Why it Matters
The program is designed so it helps vulnerable families and communities as it:
- Promotes safer living environments by relocating families away from danger zones;
- Supports infrastructure development without leaving displaced families behind; and
- Strengthens inclusivity and equity by targeting the housing needs of the poor and marginalized.
Benefits
Availing the RAP-LGU provides numerous benefits for both LGUs and the intended beneficiaries, promoting safer communities and sustainable development.
For Local Government Units (LGUs):
- Access to financial and technical assistance from the National Housing Authority (NHA).
- Enhanced capacity to implement comprehensive resettlement and housing programs.
- Support in aligning local housing projects with national housing policies and standards.
- Opportunity to promote inclusive urban development and reduce housing backlogs.
- Strengthened partnerships with government agencies and community stakeholders.
- Improved capacity for land use planning, infrastructure development, and service delivery.
For Beneficiaries (Displaced and Low-Income Families):
- Relocation to safer, well-developed, and disaster-resilient communities.
- Access to decent housing units without direct financial burden.
- Opportunity to improve quality of life with better infrastructure and community facilities.
- Protection from eviction and displacement due to government projects or unsafe living conditions.
- Inclusion in sustainable, community-based development programs and support services.
- Increased stability, security of tenure, and improved living environment.
Target Beneficiaries
The RAP-LGU program is designed to support the most vulnerable sectors of society by providing safe and sustainable housing solutions. The following are its key target groups:
- Families living in danger zones such as riversides, esteros, waterways, railroad tracks, and other hazardous areas.
- Informal settler families (ISFs) affected by government infrastructure and development projects.
- Families with court-issued eviction orders.
- Low-income families or marginalized groups identified as qualified beneficiaries by the LGU.
- Households affected by natural disasters or calamities requiring permanent relocation.
- Other vulnerable or disadvantaged groups deemed eligible under the guidelines of the program.
Who Can Qualify for RAP-LGU?
The program requires these target beneficiaries to meet the following criteria:
Eligible Beneficiaries:
- Families in danger zones (e.g., riverbanks, railways)
- Families displaced by infrastructure or court-ordered evictions
- Other poor and low-income families as validated by LGUs
For LGUs, the eligibility requirements include:
- Preparation and submission of a detailed resettlement project proposal
- Alignment with RA 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992
Documentary Requirements
To successfully avail the benefits of the NHA RAP-LGU, both the LGUs and the beneficiaries must prepare and submit several documents to ensure proper evaluation, approval, and implementation of the project. These required documents include:
For Local Government Units (LGUs):
- Project Proposal detailing the scope, objectives, site development plans, and cost estimates
- Technical drawings and specifications for land development and housing construction
- Certification of Fund Allocation issued by the LGU Treasurer
- Sangguniang Resolution approving the project and authorizing the Mayor/Governor to enter into agreements with the NHA
- Land ownership documents or proof of land availability (e.g., land title, Deed of Donation, or lease agreement)
- Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and other necessary development permits
- Project implementation schedule and timeline
- MOA (Memorandum of Agreement) between LGU and NHA
- List of target beneficiaries validated by the LGU and other partner agencies
- Monitoring and evaluation framework for the project
For Beneficiaries:
- Valid government-issued identification (e.g., Barangay ID, Voter’s ID, or any acceptable ID)
- Proof of residency in the area affected (e.g., barangay certification or utility bills)
- Certificate of indigency or income verification document
- Barangay Clearance or certificate of good moral character
- Supporting documents indicating displacement or relocation need (e.g., notice of eviction, demolition order, or certification from the LGU)
- Household profile or social case study prepared by the LGU or authorized agency
Preparing these documents in advance helps streamline the approval process and ensures that qualified beneficiaries can benefit from safe, sustainable, and affordable housing through this program.
How to Apply: RAP-LGU Availment Process
To apply, simply follow these steps:
For LGUs:
Step 1: Project Proposal Submission
LGUs need to submit a proposal to NHA with the following:
- Project scope and development plans
- Cost breakdown and funding needs
- Target number of beneficiaries
Step 2: Evaluation and Fund Approval
NHA reviews the proposal and, if approved, releases funding in tranches. LGUs must submit periodic reports to access subsequent funds.
Step 3: Project Implementation
LGUs (or NHA in some cases) begin development and construction based on the approved plan.
Step 4: Turnover and Site Management
Completed housing units are turned over to beneficiaries. LGUs handle long-term maintenance and sustainability.
For Beneficiaries:
If you are a qualified beneficiary seeking to avail of the housing support under the RAP-LGU program, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Coordinate with your Local Government Unit (LGU)
Visit your barangay hall or municipal/city government to inquire about the RAP-LGU project implementation in your area and confirm your eligibility.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Prepare and submit the necessary documents, including any supporting documents required by your LGU.
Step 3: Undergo Beneficiary Profiling and Validation
Your LGU or a designated agency will conduct a social investigation or profiling to assess your eligibility and need for resettlement.
Step 4: Wait for Beneficiary Selection and Approval
The LGU will finalize the list of qualified beneficiaries in coordination with the NHA. You will be notified once your application is approved.
Step 5: Sign the Required Agreements or Documents
Once selected, you may be asked to sign agreements related to housing occupancy, community guidelines, or beneficiary obligations.
Step 6: Relocation or Occupancy
After approval and site preparation, you will be relocated to the resettlement site or granted access to the housing unit provided by the RAP-LGU program.
Coordination and Monitoring Mechanism
To ensure project success, a Local Inter-Agency Committee (LIAC) is created, composed of:
- LGU representatives (as lead)
- NHA
- PCUP
- Community associations
- Other government agencies
LIAC is responsible for:
- Project consultation and coordination
- Monitoring progress
- Issue resolution
In areas without a LIAC, the Local Housing Board (LHB) will take on these responsibilities.
Both LGUs and NHA must submit quarterly physical and financial reports and a Project Completion Report (PCR) upon development completion.
Roles and Responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities required in carrying out the program is divided between the LGU and the NHA as follows:
LGU Responsibilities:
- Provide land for the project
- Secure all legal and technical documents
- Prepare technical plans and implementation schedule
- Allocate additional funds not covered by NHA
- Pass necessary Sangguniang Resolutions (for MOAs, budget approvals, deed of donation, etc.)
- Create a Project Implementation Team and LIAC
- Submit required reports and ensure project sustainability
- Return unused or misused funds
- Ensure proper use of open spaces and community facilities
NHA Responsibilities:
- Assist in planning and technical preparation
- Release funds and oversee progress
- Secure permits for NHA-implemented components
- Support LGUs in policy-making, relocation, and community development
- Monitor implementation and accept completed works
- Promote gender mainstreaming policies
- Require return of funds if project fails to meet terms
Actual Project Implementation
One of the most prominent example of the Resettlement Assistance offered by the NHA under the RAP-LGU program is the Enzo Town Homes Project in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental.
This RAP-LGU project features:
- Land area: 65,160 sqm
- Deliverables: 249 serviced lots and 122 housing units
- Funding: PHP 50 million (first tranche released January 2022)
This project gave vulnerable families a fresh start in a safe and sustainable community.
Frequently Asked Questions
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding the RAP-LGU program:
1. What happens to unused funds?
Unused funds must be returned to NHA or reallocated to other resettlement projects.
2. Are jobs created during development?
Yes. Local workers often get hired for site development and construction, boosting the local economy.
3. How do LGUs ensure sustainability?
LGUs implement cost-recovery systems and community support programs for long-term upkeep.
Video: Balai Talks—Resettlement Assistance Program to LGUs (RAP-LGU)
As a government initiative, the NHA Resettlement Assistance Program to LGUs (RAP-LGU) was designed to primarily address housing challenges in the Philippines. By equipping LGUs with the necessary tools and funding, it helps build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities. If you’re part of an LGU or community in need of housing assistance, this program could be your next big step toward a better life. Learn more about it by watching this video from the NHA:
For even more information or for any questions or concerns regarding the RAP-LGU Program, you may also reach out to the NHA via the following:
Main Office Address: 5 Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
Contact Number: (02) 8426-4703 or (02) 8354-0961, (02) 8921-4066 (Information Division)
Email Address: housingassistance@nha.gov.ph
Official Website: https://nha.gov.ph/
Official Social Media Pages
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/OfficialNHA?_rdc=1&_rdr
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NationalHousingAuthority