PBBM’s pro-poor housing program gets full backing from private developers

Private developers’ groups expressed their full support to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s expanded pro-poor housing program as they welcomed the appointment of Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling.

In a dialogue on Friday, Secretary Aliling, along with top DHSUD officials, engaged representatives from the country’s top developer organizations in a no-holds barred discussion to strengthen collaboration and revitalize President Marcos Jr.’s pro-poor housing program.

Representatives from the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association Inc. (SHDA), Chamber of RealEstate and Builders’ Associations (CREBA), Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers of the Philippines (OSHDP), and the National Real Estate Association (NREA) attended the activity to tackle key housing sector issues, including balanced housing compliance requirements , socialized housing price ceilings, new developmental modalities, and streamlining of regulatory processes.

Secretary Aliling welcomed the sector’s inputs as he emphasized the urgency of collective action and synergy of efforts between the government and the private sector.

“Let’s not waste this opportunity. One last push. We still have enough time. Tiyaga lang po, maa-achieve natin ito,” the DHSUD chief said, sharing that his appointment came with clear marching orders from the President.

Meanwhile, each developer group expressed strong support for DHSUD’s direction, with leaders offering both feedback and firm commitments.

Mr. Francis Richmond Villegas from SHDA acknowledged the need to accelerate action and pledged industry support moving forward.

“We still have 3 years to basically revitalize the industry. So I hope, this is an indication that we are supporting you,” he said.

In addition, Mr. Demetrio Posadas of CREBA affirmed their full cooperation, citing Secretary Aliling’s firm grasp of industry dynamics.

“DHSUD is in good hands…. you have a great grasp of what is happening in the industry… We really appreciate your prompt action…we will definitely support your administration, so that you could achieve a home for every Filipino,” Mr. Posadas said.

OSHDP Atty. Christopher Ryan Tan, in his message, expressed support as well. “Ang aming maisusukli, to produce… to produce and to produce, Sir. Kahit wala pa po yang policy na yan nagpaplano na po kami… Sir, umasa po kayo na kami po, hindi na rin po namin kayo bibigyan ng problema mag-isip… Asahan niyo po kami,” he said.

Representing NREA, Ms. Imelda Magtoto reiterated their support for housing innovations, highlighting the importance of flexible modalities.“It’s impossible to get that target with just using one modality. I suggested then the horizontal housing, the rental housing… I recommended incremental housing. Possibly, you can also study the feasibility of the modality, Congratulations Secretary Aliling, NREA is in full support in you.” she said.

In response to Ms. Magtoto’s inputs, Secretary Aliling noted that DHSUD is already working on integrated approaches.

“We are committed to fulfilling the President’s marching orders, to work hand-in-hand with the private sector, and most of all-to serve every Filipino family who dreams of a dignified home. This is not just about building houses; this is about building dignified lives, building hope, and building a future where no one is left behind,” Secretary Aliling concluded.

The dialogue is part of DHSUD’s broader commitment to private sector engagement to come up with solutions that ensure not just shelter-but dignified, inclusive, and sustainable communities for all Filipinos. — MJM