After decades of waiting, several families under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) program can finally call a piece of land their own.

Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said many beneficiaries were overcome with gratitude after receiving their Certificates of Lot Award (CELA) from the President himself during the recently concluded National Housing Expo 2025.

“These families have been waiting for years, even decades, for this moment,” Aliling said. “And now, through the 4PH and the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP), we’re making that dream of homeownership a reality.”

For Noli Parcon of the Megaville 2 Homeowners Association in Pasig City, the day felt almost surreal.

“We’re overjoyed… this gave us a real chance to finally own our own homes,” Parcon said.

“What really touched me is how sincere the President was. He understands what people need. He’s not pushing us away or relocating us far from our communities. That’s why this dream finally came true under his term.”

Among those who waited the longest was Erlinda Asiao of Pasig, who said receiving her certificate after nearly 25 years brought her to tears.

“We’ve lived in our area for almost 25 years,” she said. “Now we finally have the papers to prove that the land is ours. We’re overflowing with joy.”

Asiao also thanked both President Marcos and Secretary Aliling for personally seeing their situation through.

“We’re so grateful to our President for paying attention to our community,” she added. “Secretary Aliling even visited us to see how we were doing. Everything he promised us before — this is the day it finally came true.”

For Amy Honrado of the Wawang Pulo Homeowners Association in Valenzuela City, the certificate meant peace of mind after years of uncertainty.

“We honestly thought it would never happen,” she said. “We were afraid we’d be forced to leave any time. But now, we’re finally secure. It feels overwhelming — especially to meet the President in person. I just hope this kind of help continues.”

Another homeowner, Nallie Villegas, said the relief was priceless.