(Contributed photo)

QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Pasig City government have sealed a partnership to implement in-city housing projects for informal settler families and low-income residents under the national government's Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday to pave the way for the housing initiatives in the city.

"The highest percentage of informal settler families are found here in Metro Manila, so pushing for the implementation of in-city projects is our priority," Acuzar said.

"It would really have a huge positive impact on the lives of most of our countrymen wanting to have their own homes through the 4PH program," he added.

During the signing, Sotto discussed the local government's initial plans for two housing projects intended for informal settlers in the city.

"Initially, we have identified two projects where there are informal settler communities who also want to have a housing program," Sotto said, adding that the city has already held dialogues with the target beneficiaries who expressed excitement over the prospect of having their own homes.

The mayor reaffirmed Pasig City's full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s flagship housing program, highlighting the importance of cooperation between national and local agencies in addressing the country's housing backlog swiftly.

"We fully support the 4PH program of our President BBM... through the Secretary's effort... This is not really the beginning of our partnership because we've been working with one another... With this MOU signing, our projects under the 4PH will continue," Sotto said.

Acuzar expressed gratitude for the partnership and excitement to learn from Pasig City's innovative leadership and best practices, which could also be shared with other local government units. He assured the city of the Department's commitment and full support until project completion.

"I wholeheartedly thank Mayor Vico for the opportunity to serve the people of Pasig and learn from your best practices... There is indeed a flow of hope in your city -- you will also be part of our National Housing Program... Rest assured that you have the full support of our government, and we will be with all Pasigueños until we fulfill your dream of having your own safe, decent and affordable homes," the housing czar said. (PIA-NCR)