Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can now apply for government-subsidized housing under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, a move praised by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez as a strong affirmation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s dedication to honoring the country’s modern-day heroes.
The announcement, made by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), allows OFWs—regardless of income—to qualify for socialized housing, provided they meet criteria such as being active Pag-IBIG members, first-time homebuyers, and not older than 65 at the time of application.
“This latest move shows that the President is sincere in his mission to give back to our OFWs, who have sacrificed so much for their families and for the country,” said Speaker Romualdez, emphasizing how this development addresses both a basic need and long-standing dream for many Filipinos abroad.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said the inclusion of OFWs is part of the President’s directive to broaden the reach of the government’s housing flagship initiative. Based on 2023 data, an estimated 2.16 million Filipinos work overseas, contributing significantly to the economy through remittances.
Romualdez noted that many of them still do not own homes. “Marami sa kanila ang walang sariling bahay at patuloy na nangangarap na makapundar ng tahanan para sa kanilang pamilya. Sa pamamagitan ng Expanded 4PH, mas napapalapit tayo sa katuparan ng pangarap na ito,” he said.
The program offers subsidized loan rates for up to 10 years, with substantial reductions in monthly amortization. For instance, a P850,000 horizontal unit would now cost only P3,583 monthly, down from P5,233. Similarly, a P1.5 million vertical unit would cost P6,234 instead of P9,235 per month.
Romualdez called the inclusion of OFWs a step toward a more inclusive housing system, urging the DHSUD to continuously widen the program’s benefits. He cited the urgent need to address the housing backlog, currently at 6.5 million and projected to reach 22 million by 2040.
“Nananatiling mataas ang bilang ng mga pamilyang Pilipino na walang sariling tirahan. Kaya’t tungkulin naming mga lingkod-bayan na gumawa ng mga paraan upang maibigay sa kanila ang oportunidad na magkaroon ng disente at matibay na tahanan,” he added.
Romualdez also reaffirmed the House’s full backing for legislation and funding support to realize the goal of decent housing for all. “Ang pambansang pabahay ay isang mabisang paraan upang madama ng mga Pilipino na kasama nila ang pamahalaan sa pagtupad ng kanilang mga pangarap,” he said.
