The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has declared that all housing units developed under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program are of superior quality and designed to withstand climate challenges. This statement comes in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to incorporate climate-resilient features into housing to protect residents from natural disasters.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar emphasized that the 4PH projects not only adhere to the national Building Code but are also a priority for both the national government and local government units (LGUs). He confirmed that these housing developments are strategically placed away from areas prone to disasters and are in line with the comprehensive land use and local shelter plans approved by LGUs.
The DHSUD’s ‘Plan and Do’ or Planado program further supports the initiative by embedding climate change considerations into urban planning. This program aims to foster sustainable and resilient communities capable of enduring climate impacts like flooding and severe weather.
Currently, 56 projects under the 4PH are at different stages of development and construction. Notable progress includes the handover of the first 4PH units in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, to overseas Filipino workers by President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. Similarly, Bacolod City has begun distributing units at the Asenso Yuhum Residences.
Secretary Acuzar highlighted these developments as evidence of the program’s success and its ability to leverage private funds for public housing initiatives, showcasing a model for future projects.