On August 30, 2024, the Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers, Inc. (OSHDP) successfully held the 4th Affordable Housing Summit titled “Breaking Barriers: Revolutionizing the Philippine Housing Industry” at Solaire Resort North Vertis, Quezon City. This event marked a pivotal moment in OSHDP’s ongoing efforts to reshape the housing landscape in the Philippines, with a particular focus on the socialized and economic sectors.
The summit gathered key leaders and experts in the housing industry, including Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and Secretary Jerry Acuzar of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). Mayor Belmonte shared her insights on the crucial role of local governments in fostering inclusive and sustainable urban development. Her initiatives in Quezon City have set a precedent in providing affordable housing solutions for the city’s growing population. Secretary Acuzar spoke on the national government’s efforts to streamline housing policies and extend support to developers and homebuyers, aligning with OSHDP’s mission for a more accessible housing sector.
Senator Imee Marcos, represented by her cousin Eliza Romualdez-Valtos, emphasized her legislative endeavors to enhance government housing projects, reflecting her long-standing commitment to making affordable and decent housing available to all Filipinos.
Dr. Ernie De Castro of the Philippine Constructors Association stressed the urgent need for innovation in the construction industry, highlighting its slow embrace of new technologies and the high turnover among skilled workers as major concerns. He also noted that the lack of interest from younger generations in pursuing construction careers further exacerbates these issues. Karla Domingo, Director for Advisory Services at Colliers, advocated for a strategic focus on second-tier cities to spur the development of affordable housing projects. She argued that developers should take a proactive approach in these areas, where lower land and construction costs could naturally boost demand.
Dr. Marife Ballesteros of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies drew attention to the financial challenges faced by lower-income families, who often must prioritize basic needs over homeownership. She underscored the importance of making housing both affordable and accessible across all income levels. Prof. Joshua Bolchover from Hong Kong University highlighted the global significance of sustainable housing development in the Philippines, advocating for the construction of disaster-resilient homes that can endure for future generations.
The summit also explored the potential impact of constitutional reforms on the housing sector. Calixto Chikiamco, President of the Foundation for Economic Freedom Inc., advocated for relaxing restrictions on foreign land ownership to attract investments and stimulate economic growth. Atty. Darlene Berberabe, Dean of the University of the Philippines College of Law, cautioned against the challenges posed by public skepticism, which could hinder the progress of charter change. Associate Prof. Cielo Magno from the University of the Philippines School of Economics anticipated that any potential charter change might be influenced more by political considerations than by economic necessities. Nevertheless, she remained hopeful that such changes could ultimately foster economic development, attract more foreign investment, and boost government funding for housing projects.
Reflecting on the summit’s success, Charlie Brown Tan, Vice President of OSHDP, expressed his deep appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and partners. “This summit was more than just a discussion—it was a call to action. We need bold steps, fresh ideas, and transformative change to revolutionize the housing industry,” Tan stated. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector in addressing the country’s housing challenges and the need to embrace innovation and a new regulatory framework.
The summit concluded with a strong commitment to revolutionizing the Philippine housing industry. OSHDP, in collaboration with its partners, pledged to advocate for policy reforms, strengthen public-private partnerships, and promote sustainable urban planning and development. The event provided a crucial platform for dialogue, fostering a collaborative environment where industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders could work together to overcome the barriers that have long hindered the growth and accessibility of housing for all Filipinos.
As OSHDP continues to lead the charge in socialized and economic housing, the 4th Affordable Housing Summit 2024 stands as a defining moment in their ongoing journey to revolutionize the Philippine housing industry.
View this infographic on affordable housing supply in the Philippines.
