Several informal settler families (ISFs) and low-income earners finally moved into their new home in Bacolod City under the government’s affordable housing program in time for the celebration of Christmas this year.
The turnover of new housing units made Bacolod City the first local government unit (LGU) to hand over completed housing units under President Marcos’ Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH).
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez led the turnover ceremony for families that availed of the Building 1 of the Asenso Yuhum Residences.
Benitez said buyer-beneficiaries of Building 1 are the first to occupy units under the 4PH Program, adding that documentation is underway for additional beneficiaries slated to receive units in Buildings 2, 3, and 4.
"By combining innovation, collaboration, and a focus on uplifting lives, Bacolod is setting the standard for urban housing development in the Philippines," said Benitez, as he discussed the City government’s objective of becoming the country’s “Super City.”
He said the fast construction and systematic identification of beneficiaries was a result of the collaboration of the Bacolod Housing Authority (BHA), led by Ma. Victoria Parrenas, and private sector partner WRS Holdings Consortium.
The consortium includes Scheirman Construction Consolidated Inc. and RS Realty Developers Inc., setting a high standard for public-private partnerships in housing.
The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), led by President Marilene Acosta, also contributed by extending development loans and fast-tracking documentation.
President Marcos; 4PH Program aims to address the nation’s housing backlog. Bacolod’s milestone demonstrates its commitment to provide affordable and sustainable housing for its people through the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), under Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar,
“The Asenso Yuhum Residences symbolize hope and progress for Bacolodnon families and makes Bacolod City a trailblazer in delivering dignified housing and sustainable communities,” said Benitez.