Developers support expanded pro-poor housing program

Private developers have pledged their full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s expanded pro-poor housing program, welcoming the appointment of Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling.

Aliling and top DHSUD officials met with representatives from major developer organizations on Friday for an open discussion aimed at strengthening collaboration and revitalizing the president's housing initiative.

The meeting included representatives from the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association Inc. (SHDA), Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations (CREBA), Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers of the Philippines (OSHDP), and the National Real Estate Association (NREA). Key housing sector issues were discussed, including balanced housing compliance, socialized housing price ceilings, new development models, and streamlining regulatory processes.

Aliling cited the need for collective action and synergy between the government and the private sector, stating, "Let's not waste this opportunity. One last push. We still have enough time. With perseverance, we can achieve this." He noted that his appointment came with clear directives from the president.

Developer groups expressed strong support for DHSUD's direction, offering feedback and firm commitments.

Francis Richmond Villegas from SHDA acknowledged the need to accelerate action, pledging industry support. "We still have three years to basically revitalize the industry. So I hope, this is an indication that we are supporting you," he said.

Demetrio Posadas of CREBA affirmed full cooperation, commending Aliling's 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," Posadas stated.

OSHDP's Atty. Christopher Ryan Tan also expressed support, saying, "Our reciprocal action is to produce... to produce and to produce, Sir. Even without that policy, we are already planning... Sir, rest assured that we will not give you a problem in thinking... You can count on us."

Representing NREA, Imelda Magtoto reiterated support for housing innovations, emphasizing 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 Magtoto's suggestions, 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," Aliling said.

The dialogue is part of DHSUD’s broader commitment to private sector engagement, aiming to develop solutions that ensure dignified, inclusive, and sustainable communities for all Filipinos.