Bacolod City: The city government is preparing to hand over more housing units under the Pambansang Pabahay Para Sa Pilipino (4PH) Program by the end of March, following the initial turnover of keys to 46 buyer-beneficiaries in January.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez announced that Bacolod City aims for a monthly turnover of units at the Asenso Yuhum Residences in Barangay Vista Alegre. However, the exact number of units to be delivered next was not specified. Benitez highlighted the city's pioneering role in implementing the 4PH program and emphasized the need to accelerate the production and turnover of housing units.

The initial group of 46 occupants in Building 1 is part of the 296 buyer-beneficiaries approved by the Home Mutual Development Fund, also known as Pag-IBIG. The city recently received an Excellence Award from Pag-IBIG Fund, acknowledging its strong support for the 4PH initiative and its commitment to expanding homeownership opportunities.

Bacolod Housing Authority head Victoria Parre±as accepted the award on behalf of the city, along with representatives from Sheirman Group, the city's joint venture partner in the 4PH housing projects. The award ceremony took place during the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman's Report 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Mayor Benitez expressed gratitude for the recognition of Bacolod's efforts to provide affordable and sustainable housing. The city government signed an agreement with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development in 2023 to implement the 4PH program, which is the flagship shelter initiative of the Marcos administration.

A joint venture agreement was also established with a consortium comprising WRS Holdings Inc. and Scheirman Construction Consolidated Inc. for the development of 4PH housing projects. By the end of last year, four buildings were constructed, with the first two towers containing 64 units each, the third tower 80 units, and the fourth tower 88 units.