Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has filed a bill that would institutionalize President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s flagship housing program in a bid to help government address the Philippines’ housing backlog.
Go filed Senate Bill No. 2108, to institutionalize the “Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program” (4PH) of the President. The 4PH program aims to build six (6) million units by the end of Marcos’ term.
If enacted into law, Go said this will 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.
The senator said it is imperative to come up with a comprehensive housing plan that will bridge the gap between the demand and supply of housing units, and ensure that every Filipino can afford a safe and comfortable place to live.
“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 in a statement.
“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 said.
The senator said the bill proposes a mechanism to subsidize amortization and interest for the beneficiaries. Under the bill, potential buyer-beneficiaries must be capable of and committed to paying the subsidized housing loan amortization.
Also under the measure, the local government units (LGUs), in coordination with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), will be responsible for project site identification and the development of their respective residential projects.
On the other hand, the Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF), as well as other government financial institutions (GFIs) and private banks, shall be mandated to make their funds available for the LGUs’ housing projects through their respective developmental loan programs.
“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 (Let's try to support the Filipinos who are most in need. Let's give them a decent place to live and let's support the poor in the hope that no one will be a squatter in their own country),” Go stressed.
Bong Go files bill institutionalizing PBBM’s flagship housing program
May 7, 2023 07:24 AM