Filipino government aims to transform communities for safe and better living

Plans and programs have been laid out to mitigate the susceptibility of Filipino communities to natural calamities 

According to Inquirer.net, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has derived plans and programs to turn Filipino communities into safe communities preventive against natural disasters.  

Under the 2040 National Housing and Urban Development Sector Plan (NHUDSP), four banner programs were identified namely Creating Spaces; Transforming Spaces to Communities; Making Communities Accessible and Affordable, and Empowering Communities.  

DHSUD’s goal is to ensure well-planned communities for all Filipinos. 

The World Bank estimated that around 10,000 people had died due to major typhoons Yolanda, Ondoy, Pepeng, and Sendong. The National Economic and Development Authority also reported over PHP388 billion (USD7.8 billion) worth of damages caused by disasters from 2011 to 2018.  

On top of that, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the urban setting’s vulnerability to public health risks, magnifying development issues in the health, economy, transportation, and housing sectors.  

Recognising the various environmental and societal risks contributing to the Philippines’ housing problems, the Department aims to not only provide basic shelters but also improve overall living conditions.  

“Transforming spaces into communities” intends to promote resiliency, equity, inclusiveness, and better quality of life. The program will guide communities in implementing solutions that drive adaptive capacity and encourage sustainable economic recovery and healthy living conditions.  

More: The common criteria for foreigners seeking to invest in properties overseas

Additionally, four sub-programs have been identified for this purpose: Integrated Settlement Development Program for Informal Settler Families (ISFs); Vertical Housing Program; Completion on Critical Housing Programs; and Green Infrastructure Development Program. 

The Department realises that all problems in the housing sector may not be addressed overnight, but actions are moving forward with pro-active programs in close coordination with all stakeholders.