Bacolod City: As one of the first local government units to sign up for the Pambansang Pabahay Para Sa Pilipino (4PH) program, this highly-urbanized city is supporting all feasible modalities being pushed by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to make 4PH more inclusive and sustainable.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing on Monday, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez expressed his support for the recalibration of the 4PH program. The city government is currently implementing the Asenso Yuhum Residences, a multi-story condominium-type development in Barangay Vista Alegre. Benitez emphasized the need for different modalities to achieve a comprehensive and inclusive housing program.

Among the modalities being explored are horizontal developments or subdivision-like housing projects, and rental housing support. These are being considered by the DHSUD under the leadership of newly-appointed Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling. To further these efforts, the Bacolod city government has acquired a 17-hectare lot in Barangay Granada, adjacent to the current relocation site, to pursue horizontal housing projects.

The Asenso Yuhum Residences has seen significant market acceptance, with many applicants interested in availing of the housing units. Mayor Benitez noted the viability of the project and expressed hope for an accelerated housing program under the new DHSUD Secretary. Earlier this year, keys were turned over to buyer-beneficiaries of the 64-unit second tower of the Asenso Yuhum Residences, following the handover to the first batch of 64 occupants in Building 1 in January.

A total of 296 buyer-beneficiaries have been approved through the Home Mutual Development (Pag-IBIG) Fund to occupy the first four towers, with the third building comprising 80 units and the fourth having 88 units, according to the Bacolod Housing Authority.