By Enrico S. Tejero
Cebu City faces the growing challenge of homelessness. Countless individuals and families find refuge on sidewalks, under bridges and in makeshift shelters.
Homelessness is a complex human crisis driven by poverty, lack of affordable housing, displacement from informal settlements, natural disasters and often underlying health or mental health challenges. While City efforts to “rescue” street dwellers are commendable, they often serve as temporary solutions to a chronic problem.
A truly compassionate and effective approach goes beyond mere temporary shelters or repatriation. It demands a holistic strategy encompassing accessible social services, sustainable livelihood programs, mental health support and a robust framework for truly affordable housing solutions.
Cebu has a moral obligation to ensure that its progress benefits all its citizens. Ignoring the plight of the homeless diminishes our collective humanity and hinders true urban progress. It’s time for more proactive, long-term investments in social safety nets and housing initiatives that offer genuine pathways out of homelessness.