Newly appointed Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling officially took his oath of office before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday, four days after assuming the top post.

Aliling formally began his role as DHSUD Secretary on Monday, but the oath-taking ceremony was delayed due to Marcos’ attendance at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A civil engineer by profession, Aliling previously served as DHSUD Undersecretary, overseeing construction management, engineering, and technical operations of the department. He played a key role in supervising flagship initiatives such as the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) housing program and the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” river revitalization project.

“I recognize the task (4PH) as I was once been given the privilege to make this a reality. And 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 kababayans but new hopes for better lives and brighter futures,” Aliling said.

He also emphasized the importance of partnerships with its stakeholders, as the Department ramps up its efforts to deliver housing to Filipino families nationwide.

"This isn't just about numbers or construction milestones. 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," he added.

Aliling replaces former Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who has been appointed as Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Rehabilitation.