President Marcos stood before newly built homes in Taytay, Rizal, a tangible symbol of a promise kept – a commitment to affordable housing for Filipino families. He acknowledged the progress made, yet emphasized the relentless pursuit of a more ambitious goal: bringing the dream of homeownership within reach for countless more.
Since assuming office, the national government has already delivered over 423,000 housing units through the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program. This isn’t simply about erecting structures; it’s about building futures, fostering stability, and empowering communities.
The current target is an impressive 1.133 million housing units by 2028, with a significant 90,000 slated for completion this year alone. This ambitious plan isn’t just about quantity, but also about accessibility, ensuring that financing doesn’t become an insurmountable barrier.
A key component of this accessibility is the reduced interest rates offered through Pag-IBIG, currently at 3% for the first five years of loans under the 4PH program. This crucial adjustment dramatically lowers monthly payments, opening doors for families previously priced out of the market.
Government subsidies are further amplifying this impact, providing vital support that transforms the aspiration of homeownership into a realistic possibility for a growing number of Filipinos. The President underscored a dedication to continually expanding these resources.
The administration is also embracing innovation, recognizing the potential of modern construction methods to accelerate building timelines and increase overall output. A visit to a Megawide Construction Corp. precast plant highlighted this commitment to efficiency.
These precast facilities represent a strategic investment in the future, promising to dramatically speed up construction and deliver homes to families faster than ever before. The President envisions expanding these capabilities nationwide.
Beyond construction, the event also marked a significant step forward for long-term residents. Lot certificates and financial assistance were awarded to beneficiaries of the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program, providing security and stability.
Certificates of entitlement were also presented to individuals who have occupied land for decades under presidential proclamations, finally granting them the security of tenure they deserve. These actions represent a profound recognition of their rights and contributions.
The President reaffirmed a commitment to collaboration with private developers, streamlining processes and broadening the program’s reach. This partnership is essential to achieving the ambitious housing goals set forth.
Ultimately, the message was clear: as long as Filipinos dream of having a place to call their own, the government will remain steadfast in its support, working tirelessly to turn that dream into a reality. The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, established in 2019, will continue to lead this vital national effort.
