The country’s housing backlog is being addressed by the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing Program or the 4PH Program, a transformative approach that will not only build houses but will especially uplift the lives of millions of Filipinos.
The 4PH Program, declared as the government’s flagship housing initiative under Executive Order No. 34, takes a strategic shift from traditional horizontal housing to vertical, multi-story developments. This paradigm not only maximizes urban land but also enables the construction of one million homes annually, an ambitious target aimed at eliminating the housing deficit by 2028.
As of April 2023, approximately 1.2 million housing units were already in progress, with groundbreaking ceremonies held in more than 25 areas nationwide. There are over 56 housing projects currently underway across the country. These include nearly 4,000 units in San Rafael, Bulacan, and 1,044 units in Pulilan, Bulacan, which also feature community facilities for holistic development.
In December 2024, five Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were awarded housing units in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, during a ceremony. This marked the first of many awards for OFWs, signaling the government’s recognition of their invaluable contributions to the economy.
The housing program has also signed agreements with educational institutions like the University of the Philippines (UP) and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) to construct housing facilities for faculty and staff, expanding the program’s reach beyond low-income families to academic professionals.
The 4PH Program’s reliance on private sector financing highlights its sustainability. With nearly ₱170 billion raised through private funds, the initiative reduces dependency on government resources while fostering public-private collaboration. Financial institutions like the Pag-IBIG Fund have committed ₱250 billion to support the program, ensuring robust funding for its ambitious goals.
The program prioritizes inclusive communities by allocating at least 40 percent of development sites for open spaces such as parks and playgrounds. It also incorporates disaster resilience into its designs, making homes safer and communities more secure. Beneficiaries, including marginalized families, informal settlers, and OFWs, are selected through transparent vetting processes in collaboration with local governments and the Department of Migrant Workers.
Moreover, the program’s focus on sustainability ensures it will extend beyond President Marcos’ term, as reaffirmed by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). This long-term perspective underscores the administration’s dedication to addressing homelessness and uplifting the lives of future generations.
The program stands out for its holistic approach. It not only provides homes but also creates opportunities for economic and social growth. Each project is envisioned as a model community where families can thrive. The initiative is also expected to generate 1.7 million jobs annually, contributing to economic development.
President Marcos has emphasized the importance of a “whole-of-nation” approach to the housing problem. By involving government agencies, local government units, the private sector, and the academe, the program ensures a collaborative and inclusive process.
The 4PH Program is an innovative response to the housing crisis, offering a pathway to dignity, security, and opportunity for millions of Filipinos. By focusing on vertical housing, sustainable funding, and inclusive communities, it represents a significant step toward the administration’s vision of a stronger, united Philippines.
As President Marcos aptly said, “Together, we are not just constructing buildings; we are building a nation of hope, resilience, and progress.”