A major socio-economic issue in the Philippines is the housing for millions of underprivileged Filipinos. It’s a critical concern that the government continues to address head-on, with the support of many different organizations from both the public and the private sector such as Habitat for Humanity Philippines. 

A resolute community of housing advocates, volunteers, donors, and champions, Habitat Philippines commits itself to continue building resilient communities and empowering Filipinos through decent and affordable housing–a cause that the organization has sworn to uphold since it was established on May 23, 1988. 

Having made an impact on the lives of more than 4.3 million Filipinos today, Habitat Philippines knows that there’s still a lot of work left to be done. Data from recent studies reveal that there are nearly 15 million Filipinos currently living in informal settlements, with a significant chunk of which are in Metro Manila, particularly in high-risk areas such as under the bridges, along esteros, and in depressed areas. 

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Habitat Philippines is ramping up its response to this massive housing need in the country by expanding its reach and encouraging more support to help more low-income families gain access to decent, affordable homes, as well as essential community services. 

On Sept. 28, Habitat Philippines is hosting its 35th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Shangri- La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City to recognize partners and donors, mobilize more supporters, and raise funds to help millions more Filipinos in need of decent homes. 

The event will also serve as a platform to showcase the milestones and achievements of Habitat Philippines throughout its 35-year service in building and uplifting communities for millions of Filipinos across the country. Also gracing the event are TV personality Kim Atienza together with celebrated performers Gian Magdangal, Lara Maigue, Nicole Asensio, as well as Franco and Ayen Laurel. 

This year’s celebration is spearheaded by committed women changemakers who embrace the noble housing advocacy that Habitat Philippines espouses. The 35th Anniversary Organizing Committee includes Wildflour Group Co-founder and President Ana Lorenzana de Ocampo, Megaworld Chief Operating Officer Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, Philux Furniture Managing Director  Stephanie Kienle-Gonzalez, philanthropist and cultural activist Catherine Silverio-Zobel, Ayala Foundation, Inc. Senior Director for Social Development Joanna Ongpin-Duarte; Livingsprings Communities Realty & Development Corp. Managing Director Monica Therese Albert-Lopez, who is also the principal architect of M.Cal Architecture & Design, and Habitat for Humanity Philippines Chief Development Officer Lala Baldelovar.

To donate, volunteer, and advocate for decent, affordable homes and empowered communities for more Filipino families, visit www.habitat.org. ph.