In response to the recent devastation caused by Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon (Habagat) in Metro Manila and other areas, the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) has facilitated the distribution of aid to support affected communities. SHFC is a Key Shelter Agency under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development that implements the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program, the flagship initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
On July 30, SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa led the distribution of food packs to more than 320 families from the Letre Homeowners’ Association, Inc. Phase 1 in Barangay Tonsuya, Malabon City. The relief assistance includes rice, canned goods, and other ready-to-eat food. It also includes soap and basic medicine to ensure that families can maintain proper hygiene and address minor health concerns during this critical time.
Accompanying Mr. Laxa were SHFC Executive Vice President Atty. Junefe Payot, Accounts Management Group Senior Vice President Josefina Banglagan, and Resettlement Services Group Vice President Bob Flores. Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and former Congressman Federico “Ricky” Sandoval also attended the relief distribution.
To date, SHFC has extended relief efforts to about 5,000 families affected by the typhoon in its housing projects across Metro Manila and Central Luzon. It aims to assist as many as 10,000 families in calamity-hit areas, including Quezon City, Marikina, Pampanga, and Bataan.
The initiative aligns with the directive of DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar to provide comprehensive assistance to families affected by the recent weather disturbances. This effort supports President Marcos, Jr.’s call for all government agencies to aid calamity-stricken areas.
SHFC’s swift and coordinated response underscores its commitment to supporting its communities during challenging times and aiding their recovery and resilience-building efforts. “Our hearts go out to all the families affected by this disaster.” Mr. Laxa said. “We will continue to work tirelessly to support our communities and ensure their well-being during these challenging times.”
Mr. Laxa emphasized the importance of collaboration in disaster response efforts, noting that the swift assembly and distribution of the food packs were made possible through the concerted efforts of the entire SHFC organization. “Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those affected by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon,” he said. “Our collective action demonstrates our commitment to community welfare.”
The innovative multistory housing projects of SHFC under the 4PH program offer a vertical solution to the staggering 6.5 million housing backlog in the Philippines. With the country being highly prone to typhoons and other natural disasters, these elevated structures are specifically designed to mitigate flood risks and enhance disaster resilience.
Currently, SHFC has 12 ongoing 4PH projects, including Crystal Peak Estates in San Fernando City, Pampanga; People’s Ville in Davao City, and Valley View Township in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, that will generate more than 45,000 units. These projects are among the 111 shovel-ready projects that will produce over 505,000 units by 2028.