Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza hand over keys to smiling beneficiaries during the turnover of housing units at San Lazaro Residences, marking a new beginning for 108 families under the city’s in-city housing program. (Photo courtesy of Manila PIO)

A total of 108 Manila families finally unlocked the door to permanent homes as the city government turned over housing units under its continuing in-city vertical housing program, marking another step in its push to give informal settler families a safer and more stable future in the capital.

Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso and Vice Mayor Chi Atienza led the turnover of housing units to 108 families at San Lazaro Residences as part of the city’s continuing in-city vertical housing program.

The project aims to provide permanent homes to qualified beneficiaries of government social programs, transitioning families from temporary assistance into long-term and stable housing solutions through public-private partnerships.

Officials said the program reflects ongoing collaboration between the local government, private developers, and partner communities to address the housing needs of informal settler families and other qualified recipients.

During the ceremony, Domagoso acknowledged that only a limited number of beneficiaries are able to fully transition into permanent housing, but stressed the importance of continuing the program.

“Isa lang kayo sa iilan, mula sa libo-libong nakinabang sa ating programa... Kaya ikinagagalak ko ang inyong pag-unlad (You are just among the few from the thousands who have benefited from our program... That is why I am happy for your progress),” Domagoso said.

He also underscored the importance of sustained cooperation in the housing initiative.

“Kayo po ang dahilan kung bakit natin ipinagpapatuloy ang programang ito. Kaya tuloy lang po ang pagtutulungan at malasakit sa isa’t isa (You are the reason why we continue this program. So let us keep working together and showing compassion for one another),” he added.

Atienza likewise expressed support for the city’s housing efforts, joining Domagoso in the turnover rites.

Beneficiaries thanked the city government, saying the housing units mark a major step toward stability, safety, and a fresh start for their families.

The program is expected to roll out additional housing units, including the ongoing construction of Binondominium, in the coming months as part of Manila’s broader urban development and relocation efforts.