D. Housing

The Ivatans have noticeably shifted from using traditional corrodible limestone to the more permanent or durable concrete and galvanized iron. Unfortunately, these preferred materials are not produced locally and need to be shipped from Manila. This problem is currently being resolved as cargo vessels now come to Batanes regularly with these construction materials. A major problem with reference to housing in the province is the very limited space for expansion/development due to the very limited carrying capacity of the land. As a remedy, there is a recommendation for networking and linkaging with both the DAR and the Department of Agriculture to facilitate the conversion of the agricultural lands for other uses.

There are also housing loans available to qualified Ivatans through the housing loan program of the GSIS, PAG-IBIG and the local branch of the Builder's Bank.

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