Bong Go files bill seeking to institutionalize Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino program

In line with Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s advocacy to help address the country’s housing deficiencies, the lawmaker filed Senate Bill No. 2108 to institutionalize Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), a flagship housing program by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.

Under the program, the 4PH aims to build six million units by the end of Marcos’ term. Being the lead agency of the program, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), has previously issued Department Circular 2023-004, granting authority to the agency’s partner local government units (LGUs) to execute and implement measures to bridge their respective housing gaps under the 4PH.

“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,” DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar previously cited.

If enacted into law, the initiative aims to provide affordable and decent housing for Filipinos, particularly those in need, considering that the lack of affordable and adequate housing options leaves countless Filipino families without a secure place to call home.

Recognizing this pressing issue, Senator Go proposed a comprehensive housing plan that seeks to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of housing units, ensuring that every Filipino can afford a safe and comfortable place to live.

“According to the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), in 2017, more than 1.5 million families were regarded as informal settlers,” cited Go in the bill.

“About half a million informal settler families in the National Capital Region (NCR) are living in poor conditions, including in high-risk areas, which is made worse by the parallel effects of COVID-19,” he continued. 

The bill provides for a mechanism to subsidize amortization and interest for the beneficiaries. Potential buyer-beneficiaries must be capable of and committed to paying the subsidized housing loan amortization.

Under the proposed law, the local government units, in coordination with the DHSUD, will be responsible for project site identification and the development of their respective residential projects. 

Meanwhile, the Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF), as well as other government financial institutions (GFIs) and private banks, shall make their funds available for the LGUs’ housing projects through their respective developmental loan programs.

“Let us aim for the realization and institutionalization of the Pambansang Pabahay Program, a program that aims to provide housing opportunities for our fellow citizens who have long been dreaming of having a place they can truly call their own,” Go said. 

“I believe that access to safe and secure housing is not just a privilege but a fundamental right of every Filipino. It is a cornerstone of our nation’s progress, fostering stability, and empowering individuals and families to thrive,” he expressed. 

The senator likewise emphasized that if implemented successfully, the 4PH would yield numerous benefits for Filipinos across the country as it would provide secure and stable housing for millions of families, offering them a sense of stability and improved living conditions. 

In conclusion, Go reiterated his continued efforts to push for increased access to affordable housing, streamlined loan processes, sustainable solutions, and community empowerment, highlighting that every Filipino family should have the right to have a safe and comfortable place to call home.

“Sikapin nating maalalayan ang mga Pilipinong pinakanangangailangan. Bigyan natin sila ng disenteng tirahan at suportahan natin ang mga mahihirap sa hangaring wala na sanang maging squatter sa sariling bayan,” Go stressed. 

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