THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) disclosed that no membership fees are needed in order to be listed in the government’s housing program.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino L. Acuzar said the agency received reports that unscrupulous individuals are using the national housing program to collect payments from the public.
These “payments” were being collected in exchange of being included in the list of those joining the “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino” (national housing for Filipinos) program.
“I would also like to emphasize that we are not soliciting any donations from the private sector or government officials for the program. For such information, please directly report this to any of our offices nationwide,” Acuzar also said.
The DHSUD chief added that Filipinos who would like to list for the “Pambansang Pabahay” program should approach the local government unit (LGU) to enlist. The DHSUD will be coordinating directly with the LGUs.
Acuzar also emphasized that interested beneficiaries do not need to be members of housing associations or groups in order to be part of the President’s housing program.
However, he suggested that they instead become members of the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund which has various financial schemes that can assist them in availing “Pambansang Pabahay” units.
Aside from the DHSUD, the public can also inquire details of the program from the National Housing Authority, Social Housing Finance Corp. and National Home Mortgage Finance Corp.
These are all key shelter agencies of the DHSUD and are also working with the government in advancing the national housing program.
Meanwhile, Acuzar said the “Pambansang Pabahay” program was devised primarily for the less privileged working force, especially those employed in urban areas but do not have their own houses.
This is highlighted by the program’s thrust to build in-city resettlements where workplaces and trade hubs, as well as educational and health institutions are located.
The program also promotes township development to ensure sustainability and economic activities within the housing sites.