The Santo Niño de Cebu Augustinian Social Development Foundation Inc. (SNAF) announces the completion of the first-7 units of Balay-Bao given to typhoon Yolanda survivors in Kinatarcan Island.
In collaboration with HoMe Architects, a Cebu-based architectural firm, Balay-bao is designed by the Philippine Augustinians for its disaster-prone Mission Territories like Kinatarcan Island, and as its contribution to the country’s post-Yolanda “build back better” paradigm, particularly in the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase. Self-sufficient and resilient, Balay-Bao provides indoor “life corners” against strong winds and earthquakes. Protection does not sacrifice comfort as Balay-Bao taps local materials and technology to keep the interior cool even El Niño-scorched Kinatarcan Island. Its defining feature, however, is its canopy that makes the entire structure impervious to the elements much like the self-effacing turtle. In its structural design, Balay-Bao encapsulates the Augustinian advocacy on justice and peace.