The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is eyeing the establishment of what it described as moden mass housing within the vicinities of Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ) and the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) in a bid to support the manpower needs for the economic development in the area.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar disclosed that initial discussions were already held with Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and Chief Executive Officer Agnes Devanadera for the identification of sites where mass housing could be constructed.

“Clark has a big potential in terms of location and infrastructure. It’s very ideal for our concept of township development,” said Acuzar.

“It’s like hitting four huge birds in one stone—firstly, to provide shelters to workers and locators, thus addressing homelessness; second, expanding development outside Metro Manila to resolve massive urbanization; third, the establishment of new green and smart cities, hence raising the value of real estate; and, lastly, creating communities to trigger economic activities,” he added.

The mass housing programs in Clark, according to Acuzar, are ideal for the “new and modern city” since the area already houses international airport, hotels, hospitals, schools and other modern infrastructures.

“The only lacking now is local populace to trigger economic activities in the area,” said Acuzar.

“By developing townships in Clark, we will be bringing in population,” he stressed.

For her part, Devanadera expressed excitement over the possible partnership with DHSUD as she branded President Marcos housing program as a “laudable concept” aimed at finally putting an end to the country’s housing need.

In the same meeting, Acuzar said the DHSUD will fully support the CDC’s initiatives in terms of providing housing to workers and locators and hoped that the initial discussion would soon lead to formal agreement.