HOUSE Committee on Appropriations chairman and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co is supporting proposals that would strengthen efforts to address the country’s housing backlog.
This comes as Co emphasized the importance of the government’s program to deal with the housing problem, including efforts to provide reasonable lodging arrangements to Filipinos, during a hearing on the proposed 2024 budget of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).
He vowed to support the DHSUD projects, as he noted that Congress would carefully and promptly review the agency’s proposed P5.4 billion budget for 2024, including the P1.5 billion allocation for the Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program” or 4PH.
Also during the budget hearing on Tuesday, Zamboanga Sibugay 1st District Rep. Walter Palma proposed authorizing Housing Secretary Jose “Jerry” Acuzar to be the final decision-maker in housing matters. Co considers this a valuable suggestion because it has the potential to boost efforts to address the housing problem in the country.
“I find merit in Congressman Palma’s suggestion. Designating the Secretary of DHSUD as the final decision-maker could undoubtedly bolster the efficiency of our housing initiatives. If this proposal were to be put into action, it holds the potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of housing initiatives by expediting the approval process and ensuring a coherent approach towards addressing the housing backlog.” Co explained.
According to Co, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision and desire to provide each Filipino with their own home led to the signing of Executive Order No. 34 on July 17, 2023. This designated 4PH as the administration’s flagship program.
Co believes that the housing shortage can be addressed through two main channels: a clear affordable housing program and modern lending methods facilitated by government support, financing institutions, local government units, and developers.
“Our greatest challenge is to discover the most excellent approaches to address our 6.6 million lodging backlog,” the Ako Bicol Party-list congressman said, stressing the gravity of the situation.
He cited DHSUD Secretary Acuzar’s innovative proposal from last year’s budget hearing, which aimed to provide housing for marginalized groups.
“We in Congress completely bolster this activity. We share each Filipino’s yearning to have a house they can call their own,” Co said.
Co expressed confidence that the DHSUD could successfully implement the housing program, even noting its consistent track record in using its budget — with a 90% utilization rate in the past.
