CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has reported that 70,000 to 80,000 housing units are currently under construction in Central Luzon.
These projects are part of the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program, a flagship initiative of DHSUD under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which aims to address the country’s housing crisis by providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions to low-income families and individuals.
During the 18th episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas of the Philippine Information Agency, DHSUD Regional Director Julius Ervin Enciso highlighted these ongoing projects in response to the region’s actual housing backlog of approximately 200,000 units.
“These 70,000 to 80,000 [housing units] do not include yet the projects we are working on with around 15 local government units that have properties and are currently complying with documentary requirements and design. This will generate even more beyond the 70,000 to 80,000 [housing units],” he added.
The condominium-type housing units being constructed by DHSUD in partnership with private developers range in size from 22 to 27 square meters, with some developers offering larger units.
Enciso said the pricing for these units start at an estimated P900,000 for a 22-square meter space.
He explained that with the maximum loanable term from Pag-IBIG Fund set at 30 years and the interest subsidy offered by the government, the monthly amortization could be as low as P2,500.
Despite the relatively low price, Enciso assured that the housing units meet quality standards, noting that these projects comply with the necessary certifications and permits from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Agrarian Reform, and local government units.
Another highlighted feature of the projects is the basic amenities comparable to those found in regular condominiums.
“One instruction from [DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar] is to prioritize the amenities so that the residents won’t need to leave. So, when they move in, commercial areas, government centers, parks, and playgrounds will be available, so they won’t have to go elsewhere. They know that when they step out of their condominium or house, there are activities they can do. They can work or enjoy themselves. Everything will be available,” Enciso shared.
In addition to the amenities, safety will be prioritized in the housing units, considering the expected number of residents.
Enciso emphasized that security measures provided by the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection will be integrated into the developments.
The 4PH program in Central Luzon is currently underway in Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, and Tarlac.
Meanwhile, DHSUD is also in talks with the local government units in Zambales and Aurora to expand the 4PH program to these provinces.
These ongoing efforts of DHSUD underscore its commitment to providing affordable and quality housing solutions for Filipinos.
SOURCE: Maria Asumpta Estefanie C. Reyes PIA3
