PBBM: Current administration sees housing as right, not privilege

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making homeownership a right for all Filipinos, rather than a privilege, as he recognized the role of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in reshaping the country’s housing policies.

In his official message for DHSUD’s 6th anniversary, the President underscored the government’s shift in perspective, highlighting DHSUD’s efforts under Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar to make housing programs accessible to more Filipinos.

"Housing should not be an act of charity, nor should it be a distant dream dangled out of reach. A home is not a luxury — it is the ground beneath a family’s stability, the safeguard of its dignity, and a space where aspirations take root," Marcos stated.

"Yet, for too long, homeownership has been treated like a privilege to be earned rather than a right to be secured. DHSUD is here to change that," he added.

Since its creation in 2019 through Republic Act 11201, DHSUD has spearheaded programs addressing the country’s housing challenges. The President cited the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) and the Pasig River Urban Development (PRUD) as examples of initiatives that aim to ensure housing is within reach for all.

"Through bold, people-first programs like the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino and the Pasig River Urban Development, we dismantle the notion that opportunities belong only to the fortunate few,” Marcos said.

The President also recognized DHSUD’s role in ensuring that housing is more than just shelter, but also a foundation for a secure and hopeful future.

"Six years in, and the work is far from over. Love, after all, is not proven in promises alone but in the years of dedication that follow. The same holds true for our commitment to housing because a nation’s success is not measured by its tallest towers, but by how many of its people can finally say, ‘Welcome home,’" he added.

DHSUD marked its 6th anniversary last Friday with the theme: "Six Years of Empowering Lives: Building Homes, Building Futures for Every Filipino Family." The event included a thanksgiving mass, ceremonial MOA signings, manual launching, and various recognition activities.

As the administration continues its housing initiatives, Marcos called for sustained efforts to address the country’s housing backlog, reaffirming the government’s long-term commitment to making homeownership a reality for more Filipinos.

"Together, let us reaffirm our resolve for a love that stays built, stands firm, and never leaves anyone behind," he concluded.