Newly appointed Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling pledged on Thursday to lead the department with unwavering integrity.

Aliling made the statement after he officially took his oath of office in a simple ceremony at Malacañang.

With his background in civil engineering and years of leadership in both the public and private sectors, Aliling is seen by industry players and stakeholders as someone who can bring fresh momentum to the government’s housing initiatives.

“When it comes to corruption, you know me, we will have zero tolerance for it,” Aliling declared.

He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve, emphasizing that the role goes beyond the position, and that it’s about building dignified and sustainable communities for Filipino families.

“My deepest gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as I humbly take the helm of the housing and urban development sector,” he said.

“Our mission is to bring dignity and stability to every Filipino family and build communities where they can thrive,” he stressed.

A former DHSUD undersecretary, Aliling was actively involved in pushing forward the administration’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program, aimed at addressing the country’s housing backlog and ensuring that every Filipino has access to a safe, decent home.

“I recognize the task, having once been given the privilege to help make this a reality. Difficult as it may seem, I am stepping into it with courage and compassion, knowing that each housing unit we build represents not just a roof over the heads of our people but new hope for better lives and brighter futures,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, noting that the department’s goals cannot be achieved in isolation.

“This isn’t just about numbers or construction milestones,” he said.

The Marcos administration has targeted the construction of one million housing units per year for its six-year term to meet the housing backlog.

“It’s about giving people a decent place to call home by working with national government agencies, LGUs, property developers, and other stakeholders to make that happen,” Aliling said.

Aliling’s credentials span public service and industry leadership. He has held key roles in organizations such as the Philippine Red Cross and the Confederation of Filipino Consulting Organizations.

In recognition of his contributions, he was named one of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) for Civil Engineering in 2015 and received the Lasallian Achievement Award in 2021. He was also once the youngest board adviser of De La Salle University.

He takes over from former Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who has been appointed the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Urban Development.