PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.‘s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program is empowering local government units in addressing shelter woes within the localities.

Under Department Circular 2023-004, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) grants authority to partner-LGUs to execute and implement measures to bridge their respective housing gaps under the 4PH program.

In the circular, partner-LGUs will act as the lead proponent in the implementation of the housing projects under the program.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said this provision will expedite the agency’s plan to provide housing units and develop livable communities for informal settler families, low-income earners and the underprivileged Filipinos.

“In our discussions with LGUs, we have developed this housing program with flexibility particularly on the financing aspect, following the applicable laws, government rules and guidelines,” the housing chief explained.

Tasks and responsibilities of LGUs include identification of sites suitable for housing and mixed-use development, processing of developmental loans for housing projects, identification of beneficiaries and development of project concept.

The circular also stated that LGUs must formulate local policies and programs to support and facilitate project financing, construction and property management.

“With our help, local leaders must deliver their commitments as we aim for the sustainability of this massive housing project. If DHSUD, LGUs, government financial institutions and private partners will work together, we can progressively address or even put an end to the country’s housing backlog,” Acuzar pointed out.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jun I. Legaspi