Resettlement Assistance Programs in the Philippines

Resettlement programs in the Philippines are designed to provide displaced or vulnerable communities with safe, stable, and sustainable housing options. Unlike general housing programs that focus on affordable housing or homeownership assistance, resettlement programs are specifically aimed at families affected by eviction, environmental hazards, or conflict. These initiatives prioritize relocating communities from danger zones and improving living conditions, often through government funding and support, ensuring that displaced individuals have access to basic services and long-term stability.

Several resettlement programs exist to cater to different vulnerable groups in the country, each focusing on specific needs, from relocating informal settlers along waterways to reintegrating former rebels. Notably, the National Housing Authority (NHA) oversees many of these programs, offering financial aid, land development, and housing construction. Understanding these programs is essential as they provide critical support for vulnerable populations, helping alleviate overcrowded urban areas, improve safety, and promote sustainable development in newly established communities.

Types of Resettlement Assistance Programs

There are different types of resettlement programs available in the country. These include: 

• Resettlement Assistance for Vulnerable and Displaced Populations: These programs are designed to help families and individuals who are displaced due to hazardous living conditions, environmental issues, or other external factors. They focus on relocation, secure housing, and improved living conditions.
• Reintegration and Peace Building Programs: These programs are focused on reintegrating individuals who have been involved in conflict, particularly former rebels, into society. They provide housing and support to ease their transition to civilian life.
• Agrarian and Rural Development Programs: These programs focus on rural development, particularly land acquisition and support for landless farmers, aimed at improving livelihoods and empowering local agricultural communities.

• Urban Relocation and Development Programs: These programs focus on urban decongestion, particularly through relocation of individuals or families from congested urban centers to less populated rural areas, and providing them with assistance to rebuild their lives.
• Community-Led Housing and Development Programs: These programs focus on empowering local communities to lead their own housing initiatives, often through collective efforts, to improve their living conditions and secure legal land tenure.

These categories target specific populations with unique needs and challenges, such as those displaced by environmental or social factors, former rebels reintegrating into society, rural farmers seeking land, urban residents needing relocation, and communities aiming to build their own housing.

List of Resettlement Assistance Programs in the Philippines

Now that you understand that not all resettlement programs target just one group, it’s time to better understand each specific program to see which one suits you best. Please see the list below: 

1. Resettlement Assistance Program to Local Government Units (RAP-LGU)

Provider: National Housing Authority (NHA), Philippines

The RAP-LGU is a government initiative under the NHA that provides financial and technical assistance to local government units (LGUs) for the development of resettlement sites. It aims to help relocate families affected by evictions, infrastructure projects, and hazardous living conditions. By funding both land development and housing construction, the program promotes safe, sustainable, and inclusive communities at no direct cost to the beneficiaries.

Purpose: To support LGUs in providing secure, disaster-resilient, and affordable housing for vulnerable and displaced families, while aligning with national housing policies and promoting inclusive urban development.

Features and benefits:

For LGUs:

• Access to NHA fund contributions for land development and/or housing construction
• Technical assistance for resettlement planning and implementation
• Opportunity to align local housing efforts with national policies
• Strengthened partnerships with other government agencies and community stakeholders
• Improved capacity for local land use planning and housing service delivery

For Beneficiaries (Displaced/Low-Income Families):

• Relocation to safe, well-developed, and disaster-resilient communities
• Access to decent housing units with no direct financial burden
• Improved quality of life with basic infrastructure (roads, drainage, power, water)
• Security of tenure and protection from eviction/displacement
• Inclusion in community-based support programs
• Safer, more stable living environments for families previously in danger zones
  

2. Resettlement Program for ISFs Affected by the Supreme Court’s Mandamus to Clean-up the Manila Bay Area

Provider: National Housing Authority (NHA)

The NHA Resettlement Program was established in response to the 2008 Supreme Court-issued Writ of Continuing Mandamus, which ordered 13 government agencies and LGUs to rehabilitate Manila Bay and clear informal settlements along its waterways. In support of this directive, the program aims to relocate Informal Settler Families (ISFs) residing within 3-meter easement zones of rivers, esteros, and other connected water bodies. Since its launch in 2018, the program has been a critical part of the nationwide effort to promote environmental protection while addressing urban housing challenges.

Purpose: To relocate ISFs living along waterways connected to Manila Bay in order to support environmental rehabilitation, ensure public safety, and provide dignified, sustainable housing solutions.

Features and benefits:

• Relocation to Safe Housing Sites: Families are transferred to government-developed resettlement areas in non-hazardous locations.
• Basic Utilities and Infrastructure: Sites are equipped with essential services like electricity, clean water, road access, and drainage systems.
• Access to Social Services: Resettlement communities have or are near schools, health centers, transport, and livelihood support.
• Subsidized Housing Assistance: Eligible families may receive financial support or low-cost housing options with affordable amortization rates.
• Coordinated Relocation Support: Includes orientation sessions, logistical help, and coordination with local government for smooth relocation.
• Improved Living Conditions: Families move from unsafe, flood-prone areas to secure, well-equipped housing.
• Support for Environmental Protection: Helps clean up waterways and prevent future encroachment.
• Reduced Health Risks: Cleaner surroundings and sanitation lead to better public health.
• Enhanced Community Development: New housing areas promote safer, more integrated communities.
• Long-Term Stability: Offers ISFs a chance at secure, sustainable housing and urban development.
  

3. Resettlement Assistance for Former Rebels

Provider: National Housing Authority (NHA), in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU)

The NHA Resettlement Assistance for Former Rebels is a housing program under the Philippine government’s peace and reintegration initiatives. It supports the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) by offering shelter and financial assistance to former rebels who have chosen to return to civilian life. The program provides affordable housing units or financial aid for home construction and repairs.

Purpose: To promote peace and community reintegration by supporting the transition of former rebels into mainstream society through secure housing and livelihood opportunities.

Features and benefits:

• Free or subsidized housing units in designated NHA housing projects
• ₱450,000 cash assistance for constructing a new home on owned or in-situ land
• ₱100,000 cash assistance for repairing an existing owned home
• Resettlement in peaceful communities, far from conflict-affected areas
• Support for community reintegration and livelihood programs
• Access to social services via partner agencies
• Psychological and emotional support through secure housing
• Contribution to national peace and development efforts
• Housing site options in Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Cavite, and others
• Alignment with peace agreements like those with Kapatiran (RPMP/RPA/ABB)
• Livelihood Assistance: Former rebels may receive a ₱20,000 Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) to start small businesses or vocational activities.
• Holistic Reintegration: The program works hand-in-hand with other government efforts to provide former rebels with a path toward long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

4. Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)

Provider: Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Local Government Units (LGUs), and Task Force Balik-Loob

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is a government initiative aimed at facilitating the reintegration of former rebels (FRs) and former violent extremists (FVEs) into mainstream society. It offers a comprehensive package of assistance, including financial aid, livelihood support, education, housing, health services, and legal assistance. The program is implemented through a collaborative effort among national and local government agencies to promote peace and development in conflict-affected areas.

Purpose: E-CLIP seeks to encourage members of insurgent and extremist groups to abandon armed struggle and return to the fold of the law by providing them with the necessary support to rebuild their lives. The program aims to address the root causes of insurgency and violent extremism, thereby fostering long-term peace and development in affected communities.

Features and Benefits:

For Individual Beneficiaries (FRs and FVEs):

• Immediate Financial Assistance: Php 15,000 upon surrender.
• Livelihood Assistance: Php 50,000 for regular NPA members to support income-generating activities.
• Firearms Remuneration: Compensation based on the type and condition of surrendered firearms.
• Housing Assistance: Provision of temporary or permanent shelter solutions.
• Education and Training: Access to formal and non-formal education, scholarships, and technical-vocational training.
• Health and Psychosocial Support: Medical services, mental health counseling, and social reintegration programs.
• Legal Assistance: Support in legal processes, including clearance and reintegration into the community.

For Immediate Family Members:

• Access to certain assistance programs, including education, health services, and livelihood support.

For Community Beneficiaries (LGUs and CSOs):

• Capacity Building for Implementers: Training, seminars, and workshops to enhance program delivery and reintegration efforts.
• Community Development Support: Infrastructure projects and social services to strengthen communities affected by insurgency.
• Peace and Security Improvements: Strengthening local peace initiatives and reducing conflict in affected areas.

5. Community Land Acquisition Support Program (CLASP)

Provider: Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Philippines

The Community Land Acquisition Support Program (CLASP) is a flagship initiative of the Department of Agrarian Reform that supports landless farmers in acquiring agricultural lands through collective ownership. It promotes equitable access to land and sustainable rural development by organizing farmer-beneficiaries into associations or cooperatives. The program also provides assistance in land negotiation, legal documentation, and capacity building.

Purpose: To empower landless farmers by helping them collectively acquire and manage agricultural lands, ensuring social justice and improved livelihoods in rural communities.

Features and benefits:

• Collective land acquisition for farmer-beneficiaries
• Support in organizing farmer associations or cooperatives
• Legal assistance and documentation support
• Capacity building and training for beneficiaries
• Facilitates negotiation and coordination with landowners
• Promotes sustainable and inclusive rural development
  

6. Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS)

Provider: Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

The Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) is a strategic program of the DAR designed to help agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) retain awarded lands by boosting agricultural productivity and enterprise development. It supports ARB organizations (ARBOs) in becoming community hubs for delivering support services. ARCCESS aims to improve household income and resilience among ARB families through integrated support mechanisms.

Purpose: To strengthen ARB organizations and enable them to manage sustainable, productive, and profitable agri-based enterprises that will lead to increased income, improved livelihoods, and land tenure security for agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Features and benefits:

• Agri-technology/Agri-extension Services (AES):
  • Access to modern agricultural technologies through ARB field schools and demo farms
  • Training on skills and techniques to enhance crop yield
• Business Development Services (BDS):
  • Support in organizational, marketing, financial, and technical management
  • Business incubation and professional mentoring for ARBOs
  • Assistance in improving internal marketing and consolidation systems
• Common Service Facilities (CSFs):
  • Provision of farm production and post-harvest equipment to ARBOs
  • Tools to improve productivity and achieve economies of scale
• Credit & Microfinance:
  • Support for ARBOs in accessing and managing credit facilities
  • Partnership with DA and Land Bank through the Agrarian Production Credit Program (APCP) for simplified loan requirements and better interest rates
• Agri-insurance (Crops and Livestock):
  • Collaboration with DA-Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation for risk mitigation
  • Insurance subsidies for ARBs who accessed credit or were ARCCESS beneficiaries
• Rural Infrastructure (RI):
  • Development of strategic farm-to-market roads, bridges, and irrigation systems
  • Infrastructure projects aligned with ARBOs’ production and marketing needs
• Land Tenure Improvement and Stability:
  • Deployment of facilitators to speed up land acquisition and distribution
  • Support for land title subdivision and transfer to heirs or successors
    

7. Community Mortgage Program (CMP)

Provider: Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), under Executive Order No. 272

The Community Mortgage Program (CMP) is a government-led housing finance initiative that empowers legally organized Community Associations (CAs) to acquire land and build affordable housing. Through accessible loans, informal settler families (ISFs) can secure land tenure, develop sustainable housing, and improve their quality of life. The CMP promotes community-led development to reduce homelessness and foster inclusive, resilient urban communities.

Purpose: To provide low-income and informal settler families access to secure, affordable housing by offering financial assistance for land acquisition, site development, and housing construction through organized community efforts.

Features and benefits:

• Loan Coverage Phases:
  • Phase 1: Land Acquisition
  • Phase 2: Site Development
  • Phase 3: House Construction or Home Improvement
• Loan Amounts (per beneficiary):
  • On-site housing: Up to PHP 400,000
  • Horizontal housing: Up to PHP 480,000
  • Vertical housing: PHP 600,000 – PHP 750,000
  • Farm Lot CMP: Up to PHP 350,000 + PHP 50,000 for farmer support
• Loan Terms:
  • Interest Rate: 6% annually
  • Repayment Period: Up to 25 years, equal monthly payments
• Affordable financing for land and housing
• Legal ownership and security of tenure
• Empowerment through community-driven housing development

8. Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program

Provider: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)

The Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program is a relocation initiative led by the DSWD that helps urban residents move back to their home provinces. It offers a fresh start by providing comprehensive support packages, including financial aid, transportation, and livelihood assistance. The program aims to improve quality of life in the provinces while easing overcrowding in major cities.

Purpose: To decongest urban areas, especially Metro Manila, and promote equitable development across rural regions by helping families resettle and rebuild their lives in the provinces.

Features and benefits:

• Travel and Transit Assistance: Financial support ranging from PHP 3,000 to PHP 5,000 for travel costs, plus food provisions during relocation.
• Livelihood Support: Up to PHP 15,000 in grants for starting or expanding small businesses, especially for those not included in other livelihood programs.
• Relocation Assistance: Families can receive up to PHP 35,000 to cover relocation-related expenses.
• Transitional Aid: Support ranging from PHP 10,000 to PHP 70,000 for food and other basic needs while adjusting to a new location.
• Rental Subsidy and Shelter Support: Temporary rental support between PHP 120,000 and PHP 250,000 while awaiting permanent housing from NHA, along with a livelihood grant worth PHP 50,000.
• Community Development Grants (via KALAHI-CIDSS): Assistance to local government units (LGUs) where BP2 beneficiaries relocate, including funding for public infrastructure like roads, multipurpose buildings, and more.
• Training and Capacity Building: LGUs receive up to PHP 300,000 for training local staff and volunteers, plus PHP 500,000 for community planning and preparation.
  

9. High Density Housing (HDH) Program

Provider: Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC)

The High Density Housing (HDH) Program is a vertical housing initiative developed by SHFC to offer safe and affordable homes to low-income families living in danger zones across urban areas. It focuses on building mid- to high-rise residential buildings in or near city centers to prevent displacement from livelihood and essential services. By supporting community-led planning and development, the program ensures that housing solutions are inclusive, sustainable, and disaster-resilient.

Purpose: To provide secure, permanent, and affordable housing to informal settler families (ISFs) living in hazard-prone urban areas through in-city or near-city relocation and vertical housing solutions.

Features and benefits:

• Affordable Housing Loan
  • Up to PHP 450,000 per family (subject to HUDCC ceilings)
  • For land acquisition, site development, or construction
  • 4.5% annual interest, payable up to 30 years
• Loan Options
  • Land acquisition plus building construction
  • Building construction only (if land is donated, leased, or under usufruct)
• Flexible Payment Terms
  • Graduated amortization (10% annual increase in first 10 years)
  • One-month grace period from occupancy
  • Rent-to-own scheme (valid for 5 years)
• Tenure Security
  • Ownership through Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT)
  • Usufruct or other approved tenure arrangements
• Disaster-Resilient Design
  • Vertical housing adapted for flood-prone and high-risk areas
  • Safer living conditions for vulnerable families
• Community-Led Development
  • Housing projects initiated by organized groups (e.g., homeowners’ associations)
  • Access to technical assistance for planning and implementation
• In-City or Near-Site Resettlement
  • Keeps families close to jobs, schools, and services
  • Avoids social dislocation caused by distant relocation
• Transparent and Inclusive Process
  • Encourages collective participation in all stages of project development
  • Promotes social cohesion within communities
    

Video: Usapang QC – Housing Programs

Resettlement programs in the Philippines aim to address the housing needs of vulnerable populations, including informal settler families, displaced individuals, and former rebels, by providing financial assistance, secure housing, and community integration. These initiatives promote sustainable development, improve living conditions, and contribute to peace-building efforts, ensuring long-term stability and resilience for affected families and communities. In this video, watch as we explore the various resettlement programs offered in the Philippines, including relocation support, financial aid, and housing solutions, designed to improve the lives of displaced families and other vulnerable groups in Quezon City.