Hundreds of families in Pasig City moved closer to permanent land ownership Monday as the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development released more than P23 million for land acquisition under a national social housing program.

Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and Social Housing Finance Corp. president Federico Laxa led the turnover of financial assistance to two homeowners’ associations in Barangay Pinagbuhatan.

The funding is part of the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program, a component of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Pambansang Pabahay” initiative.

The Megaville 2 Homeowners’ Association Inc., representing 149 families, received more than P14 million to purchase the land they currently occupy. The Villa Soledad Homeowners’ Association Inc., which consists of 88 members, was granted over P9 million for its community site.

In addition to the land acquisition funds, the SHFC released grants to cover documentary stamp taxes on the mortgages to reduce the financial burden on low-income residents.

“This is not just financial aid. This is about giving dignity to the lives of every beneficiary and recognizing their right to security and peace in their homes,” Aliling said.

The two communities previously received Certificates of Lot Award from President Marcos during a national housing expo in October. The release follows a similar turnover last week, where the Centennial Sunrise Homeowners’ Association in Pasig received P21 million for its site.

These groups are among the first 34 projects approved nationwide under the enhanced mortgage program, which officials say will eventually benefit more than 5,800 families.

“As Christmas draws near, we want our people to feel the true spirit of the season,” Aliling said. “This is a gift that shows the government is here to support and respond to their needs. This is not just a promise.”