SHDA updates roadmap for more sustainable housing

MANILA, Philippines — The Subdivision and Housing Developers Association Inc. (SHDA) is updating its industry roadmap as it aims for a more sustainable housing sector.

In a statement, the SHDA said its housing industry roadmap was initially created for the years 2012 to 2030.

However, to stay current with the ever-evolving landscape, SHDA chairman Arlene Keh explained that it is undergoing updates to account for emerging trends and new developments in the industry.

The group envisions the next decade to be a transformative period where housing becomes a flourishing sector and a driver of economic growth and a catalyst for social intervention.

SHDA’s housing industry roadmap centers around four crucial pillars: firstly, ensuring access to land for settlements and streamlining the permitting process; secondly, finding sustainable and affordable housing solutions; thirdly, boosting the production of resilient and innovative housing communities; and finally, incentivizing private sector engagement in segments grappling with high housing backlogs.

Keh said the roadmap aims to meet the young working middle-class needs and address challenges with immediate intervention.

She also highlighted the importance of tackling climate change and embracing disruptive technologies for improved construction and project management.

“Roadmap solutions (are) aimed to help the government bridge this (supply and demand) gap and serve as a guide for both the government and the private sector in the pursuit of strategies, policies, and overall growth and development in the housing industry,” SHDA said.

In line with these efforts, SHDA has also expressed their support for the creation and institutionalization of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, as well as the Pambansang Pabahay Para Sa Pilipino Program of the current administration.

SHDA national president Leonardo Dayao also expressed the importance of maintaining the group’s strong partnership with the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), also known as Pag-IBIG Fund. This includes sustainable financing for both developers and buyers as the common objective of SHDA and Pag-IBIG.

“(The) HDMF has actually announced the availability of some P125 billion for home financing and SHDA members will continue to build and deliver quality and affordable housing to support and access the HDMF plan,” Dayao said.

SHDA also aims to assist a substantial number of overseas Filipino workers in owning homes in the Philippines, utilizing online platforms and exhibitions to showcase available housing units and products.

Keh stressed SHDA’s active involvement in promoting sustainability and inclusivity in housing. They support government policies and planning at both national and local levels, integrating these values into strategies, policies, and programs for the benefit of developers and homebuyers.

During their 53rd anniversary celebration last May, SHDA has also officially launched their corporate social responsibility initiative, the SHDA Cares program, that targets to address homelessness, offers skills training for employment, and engages in community outreach and calamity response efforts. Through partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Rotary Club, SHDA aims to contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future.

“SHDA is committed to working closely with the government, private sector, and relevant organizations to ensure that more Filipinos have access to affordable and quality housing,” the group said.