Iloilo City Inaugurates Landmark Rental Housing Project in Partnership with DHSUD
On February 4, 2026, Iloilo City officially launched the Iloilo Residences Rental Housing Project, marking a historic milestone as the first initiative of its kind in the city. This pioneering effort is a collaborative venture with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), aimed at addressing critical housing needs in the urban landscape.
Project Details and Affordable Living Solutions
Located in Barangay Sambag, Jaro, the project will construct 362 units, meticulously designed to provide affordable, safe, and dignified homes. These residences are targeted at various groups, including:
- Families starting out and seeking stable housing.
- Disaster survivors in need of temporary shelter.
- Individuals displaced by demolitions, offering them a secure place to rebuild their lives.
With a proposed rental fee capped at not more than P850 per month (excluding utilities), the project offers a cost-effective solution. Beneficiaries can reside in these units for up to five years, providing ample time to plan and construct their own permanent homes, thereby fostering long-term stability and community growth.
Comprehensive Amenities and Community Features
According to Peter Jason Millare, head of the Iloilo City Local Housing Office, the housing site will be equipped with a range of essential facilities to enhance residents' quality of life. These include:
- A multipurpose hall for community events and gatherings.
- A health center to ensure access to medical services.
- A park and playground for recreational activities.
- A basketball court to promote sports and social interaction.
These amenities are integral to the project's goal of ensuring that residents have access to both essential services and recreational spaces, creating a holistic living environment that supports well-being and social cohesion.
Funding and Strategic Partnerships
The rental housing project is financed through DHSUD's Escrow Fund, which is sourced from mandatory developer deposits under the Balanced Housing Development Program. This funding mechanism guarantees that socialized housing requirements directly benefit local communities, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation.
The launching ceremony was a significant event, led by DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling and Mayor Raisa Treñas. They were joined by key officials, including:
- Authority Regional Manager Engr. Rizalino Cabahug.
- Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor area coordinator Sheila Saplagio.
- City Councilor Mandrie Malabor.
- Peter Jason Millare.
- Barangay Sambag officials.
Mayor's Vision and Commitment to Housing Development
In her address, Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized the critical role of housing in Iloilo City's development strategy. She stated, "This is one clear response to our growing need for housing solutions in our city. It is also one of the reasons why we are focusing and prioritizing housing under the Rise-to-Action Framework, especially under our Rising Health and Social Services pillar."
She further highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts, adding, "It is worth emphasizing that these housing projects reflect the strong partnerships we have with our national government agencies and the private sector, working hand in hand to deliver real, meaningful benefits to our communities." This underscores the city's commitment to leveraging partnerships to achieve sustainable urban development and improve the lives of its residents.
