Manila: Newly appointed Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling has announced plans to recalibrate the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Housing Program to incorporate horizontal developments.

According to Philippines News Agency, Aliling stated that this initiative aims to attract more partners and expedite housing production. The 4PH program, initially focused on vertical housing projects, will now include horizontal developments, which encompass subdivision-type housing projects. Aliling emphasized the importance of preparing guidelines for these horizontal developments, anticipating significant improvements in 4PH's performance.

Aliling highlighted the need for alignment with DHSUD's key shelter agencies to ensure program convergence. He invited stakeholders, particularly private developers, to participate in monthly dialogues aimed at synchronizing policies for streamlined housing processes.

Aliling reiterated his commitment to "zero tolerance" for corruption, a principle he described as crucial to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. "Kilala niyo po ako, nakatrabaho niyo po ako bilang USec ng isang taon. Zero tolerance po tayo sa corruption," he affirmed, reflecting his previous experience as an undersecretary over the past year.

Aliling was appointed as the new housing czar by President Marcos last week, succeeding Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who has been designated as the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Development.