MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government recently unveiled model units under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, signaling a renewed push to address the country’s persistent housing shortage. The initiative, a flagship project of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aims to provide affordable, decent housing to Filipino families, combining both condominium-type (vertical) and subdivision-type (horizontal) designs to accommodate diverse needs.

According to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), potential beneficiaries can now apply directly through DHSUD offices, the Pag-IBIG Fund, the National Housing Authority (NHA), the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), or their local government units. The process has been simplified to accelerate housing construction and ensure that families have access to safe and affordable homes without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Observers note that while the unveiling of model units demonstrates the government’s commitment, the real challenge lies in scaling the program nationwide. The Philippines faces a growing housing backlog, particularly in urban centers where informal settlements continue to expand. Critics argue that without proper planning, regulation, and funding, even well-intentioned programs may fall short of meeting demand. From an analytical standpoint, the 4PH program represents both hope and caution. While it brings tangible progress in showcasing viable housing options, it also underscores broader issues of urban planning, affordability, and equitable access. Can the 4PH program truly deliver on its promise to provide decent housing to millions of Filipino families, or will it remain another pilot project that struggles to reach those most in need? (Larawan mula: ABS-CBN / Facebook)