The government is expanding its flagship housing program by bringing more private developers on board and offering subsidized financing, as it seeks to make homeownership more attainable for Filipino families amid varying budgets and property prices.
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said two additional major developers are expected to join President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program this week.
Five developers have already signed agreements with Pag-IBIG Fund: Megawide Construction Corp., Ayala Land’s Amaia and Avida brands, SM Development Corp., Filinvest Land Inc. and Robinsons Land Corp.
Their participation is expected to broaden housing options, with developers offering preferential pricing and incentives to qualified buyers. The expansion also aims to strengthen private-sector involvement in delivering affordable homes, although actual accessibility will depend on project locations, eligibility requirements and borrowers’ ability to meet monthly payments.
“This is a gamechanger as far as government housing program is concerned,” Aliling said, pointing to growing industry participation.
The initiative will be showcased at the second National Housing Expo on October 19–20 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, where more than 60 developers are expected to present thousands of housing options.
Pag-IBIG Fund is offering subsidized housing loan rates starting at 3 percent annually for qualified borrowers, alongside promotional rates of 4.5 percent and 5.75 percent for higher-priced properties. The maximum housing loan has also been raised to P10 million, widening the financing ceiling for eligible applicants.
The expo will offer free admission, developer incentives and on-site loan assistance, allowing prospective buyers to compare properties and explore financing options directly with housing providers and lending institutions.
The expanded program comes as the government seeks to address the country’s housing needs through greater private-sector participation and more accessible credit. However, lower interest rates alone may not resolve affordability challenges, particularly for households with limited incomes or uncertain employment.
The program’s broader impact will depend on whether additional projects translate into homes that eligible families can realistically afford, sustain and access near jobs and essential services.
