The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has turned over five quadruplex houses to 20 families from the Sama-Badjao community in Surigao City.

In a news release Wednesday, the DHSUD said the housing is part of the Huy-anan sa Badjao Project, a collaborative effort among the agency, the Surigao City government and the United Nations (UN) – Habitat.

DHSUD Undersecretary Henry Yap said the housing project, located at Sitio Panubigon in the coastal community of Barangay Lipata, has a “deeper significance” to the beneficiaries.

“The newly turned over homes and community can be transformed into a genuine sanctuary — a place where Sama-Badjao can nurture their families, preserve their culture, and pursue their aspirations,” he said.

It also serves as a model for sustainable housing and inclusive development.

Widely known as the “sea gypsies,” the Sama-Badjao tribe is one of the country’s many ethnic groups.

UN officials, who were present at the event last Jan. 17, emphasized the importance of global commitment in promoting inclusive development and the crucial role of collaboration among partner agencies in the project’s success. (PNA)