People's Ville at Davao City.  
PARTNERSHIP

SHFC: Transforming housing in the Philippines

SHFC remains focused on scaling up its efforts to meet the growing demand for affordable housing

Aliyya Sawadjaan

Rapid urbanization and a growing population have made affordable housing a major challenge in the Philippines. At the forefront of tackling this issue is the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), an agency dedicated to providing not just homes, but resilient, sustainable, and smart communities for future generations. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, SHFC is reshaping the housing landscape for underserved communities across the nation.

SHFC’s mission centers around Flexible, Affordable, Innovative and Responsive (FAIR) shelter solutions, aimed at addressing both present and future housing needs. One of its more significant programs, the Community Mortgage Program (CMP), was launched in 1988 to help low-income families, particularly informal settler families (ISFs) living in hazardous areas like waterways and dumpsites, secure land ownership. By allowing these families to purchase the land they occupied or were relocated to, the CMP provides security of tenure, fostering a sense of ownership and self-reliance.

Over the years, the CMP has become SHFC’s flagship program, empowering thousands of families and promoting stronger, more sustainable, communities. This initiative not only addresses immediate housing needs, but ensures long-term community development and stability.

President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. visits Crystal Peak Estates.

Another key initiative, the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program, was launched under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to tackle the country’s staggering 6.5-million housing deficit. With a goal of delivering 500,000 housing units by 2028, 4PH is one of the largest housing programs in Philippine history.

SHFC plays a vital role in implementing 4PH projects nationwide, focusing on creating smart communities with sustainable infrastructure, green building technologies, and disaster-resilient features. Whether in high density urban areas or rural regions, SHFC ensures that these developments foster social mobility, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

Over the years, the CMP has become SHFC’s flagship program, empowering thousands of families and promoting stronger, more sustainable, communities.

As part of its forward-thinking approach, SHFC is increasingly integrating “smart” housing solutions into its projects. These solutions prioritize sustainability, energy efficiency, and disaster resilience.

From vertical housing in urban areas, where land is limited, to energy-efficient designs and green technologies, SHFC ensures that its developments not only meet the immediate needs of residents, but also provide lasting environmental benefits.

The future of housing in the Philippines is not just about constructing buildings, but creating communities that will thrive for generations. SHFC’s innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and focus on smart, sustainable housing are transforming the housing landscape and building a better future for every Filipino family.