Meanwhile, as of end-2021, more than 1.08 million housing units and lots were produced and financed, accounting for 86% of the 1.26-million units targeted under the Philippine Development Plan 2016-2022.
The Department also assisted 233 local government units in updating and ratifying their Comprehensive Land Use Plans and Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plans.
“Finalizing these key pacts indicates the government’s devotion in promoting effective land utilization towards ensuring national progress without causing harm to the environment,” Secretary Del Rosario noted.
It likewise crafted real estate development policies and issued directives to cushion the impact of the pandemic, issued 1,437 Licenses to Sell and Certificates of Registration to 36,624 dealers, brokers and salespersons registered with the Department in the last two years.
DHSUD also implemented various measures to further professionalize the housing industry. And currently, it is serving 25,621 registered homeowners associations nationwide. Revising the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Magna Carta for HOAs was likewise among the Department’s priorities following its creation.
With regards to advancing its overall operationalization, management has filled up 65.46% of its workforce, crafted and submitted for funding its Information Systems Strategic Plan and completed the establishment of its 16 regional offices, each fully capable of carrying out DHSUD’s housing programs and policies.
The Department likewise succeeded in strengthening partnerships with LGUs and private developers through finalization of various memorandums of agreement, some of which paved the way for the construction of several evacuation centers in line with government efforts to boosting the country’s disaster preparedness.
“We must continuously innovate to ensure that our vision to be a ‘strong institution and catalyst for the provision of adequate and affordable housing, inclusive human settlements and well-planned communities for every Filipino family’ comes to light,” Secretary Del Rosario said.
And with the Duterte administration’s term coming to an end, the housing czar is more than confident that all DHSUD’s hard work will not go to waste and will be continued by the incoming leadership.
Secretary Del Rosario also believes the housing sector remains in good hands, especially with the outstanding officials of DHSUD working tirelessly in achieving their respective duties.
His advice to the next housing chief? Always serve with passion.
“Your mind and your heart must focus on the welfare of the Filipino families who do not have a house of their own,” the DHSUD chief said. (DHSUD)
