The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is seeing renewed momentum in the rollout of the expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program, with at least 42 private developers committing to build over 250,000 housing units nationwide.

This wave of support, DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said, reflects the improving trust of private stakeholders in the government’s flagship housing initiative – driven largely by policy recalibrations, process streamlining, and a push for better governance under his leadership.

“With the approved exclusive 4PH programs by the Pag-IBIG Fund, we can expect more active private sector participation and simplified processes for our beneficiaries. Hence, a more inclusive and sustainable program,” Secretary Aliling said during the agency’s Monday flag ceremony.

He added that the program is now set to accelerate. 

“We can consider it done – the Expanded 4PH will now move faster. We just have to monitor and support the developers who already made commitments. You’ll see that private sector players are now gradually participating.”

The revamped 4PH now includes not just vertical developments but also horizontal housing or subdivision-like projects, opening new opportunities for private sector involvement, particularly in socialized housing. Alternative housing modalities such as rental and incremental housing are also under review.

Secretary Aliling emphasized that the enhanced credibility of the DHSUD is a major factor in attracting more partners.

“As long as our department maintains high credibility, stakeholders will engage. In the end, it’s the public that benefits.”

He also expressed hope that DHSUD would earn a lasting reputation for integrity: “What I want is that someday, when people hear you’re from DHSUD, they’ll say, ‘Those are decent, principled people.’”

Since assuming office, Secretary Aliling has introduced an 8-Point Agenda aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a responsive, inclusive, and sustainable housing sector. Among his key reforms are the expansion of 4PH to include diverse housing types and a commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, underscoring transparency and accountability as pillars of his administration.