DHSUD warns against scammers in housing program

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Tuesday cautioned the public against unscrupulous individuals or groups who could be taking advantage of the rollout of the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program throughout the country.

Secretary Acuzar stressed that DHSUD will not tolerate any form of corruption or other illegal schemes in the implementation of 4PH –the flagship housing program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

At the same time, the DHSUD chief vowed to take appropriate action, including filing of proper charges if needed, against those who would be found taking advantage of the housing program for their own selfish agenda.

“At DHSUD, we don’t tolerate any form of graft and corruption. We encourage everyone to report any suspicion against unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of the 4PH Program for their illegal activities,” Secretary Acuzar said.

“We will act accordingly against them, and we will not hesitate to file proper cases, if necessary,” he warned.

Secretary Acuzar urged the public to report to DHSUD any suspicious activities by individuals and groups, or even officials and staff members of DHSUD, regarding the implementation of 4PH–particularly those who misrepresent themselves to have involvement in the program and asking fees for registration.

“Transact only with LGUs with regards to beneficiaries and contractors,” the DHSUD chief stressed.

On the other hand, he said that DHSUD offices are open to cater to stakeholders seeking details regarding the housing program, through its 16 Regional Offices nationwide where they can officially inquire about 4PH.

“Don’t engage private individuals or groups to register under 4PH…just proceed to your LGUs, they are the ones in-charge in identifying beneficiaries and selecting contractors,” he added.

He further emphasized “there are no registration or membership fees needed for 4PH.”

For contractors and developers, Secretary Acuzar pointed out that DHSUD is not responsible for the selection of who will undertake the housing projects as it is still the LGUs, as primary proponents, that are given the authority to choose their private-partners.

“DHSUD has no power to award/appoint contractor-developer. It is the LGU which has authority to engage with contractor/developer consistent with the law and existing rules and regulations,” the DHSUD chief said.

The DHSUD has recently released the 4PH Manual of Operations, now available in the Department’s official website, dhsud.gov.ph, to properly guide all stakeholders in the implementation of the flagship housing program and avoid being victimized by unscrupulous individuals or groups.

Also, DHSUD, through its Public Assistance Service, has been proactively issuing public reminders and press statements to keep the public well-informed regarding the rollout of 4PH.

As of March 20, DHSUD has already held 19 groundbreaking events in various parts of the country, with the latest in Naga City, Camarines Sur attended by President Marcos Jr. while 83 memoranda of understanding were signed with LGUs from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.