Manila, April 27 -- A PHP 400 million facility that will provide shelter and support services to abused women, children, and neglected senior citizens in this city is nearing completion and is expected to open within the year.

In an interview after Monday's flag-raising ceremony, Mayor Hisham Ismail said the Haven for Women and Children and Home for the Aged in Barangay Estanza is now about 92 to 95 percent complete, with operations targeted to begin by the third or fourth quarter.

"It is a very good program initiated by former mayor and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin. Hopefully, it will open by the third or fourth quarter this year," he said.

Ismail said the facility is expected to serve not only residents of Legazpi City bu...