PHILIPPINES — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Home Development Mutual Fund signed a Memorandum of Agreement on Thursday for the joint development of BCDA properties, particularly in New Clark City. The partnership covers housing and potential mixed-use developments under the Expanded 4PH Program.
A Landmark Partnership for New Clark City
The MOA provides a framework for collaboration on project planning, financing, development, implementation, operation, management, and commercialization. BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang signed for the agency, while Pag-IBIG Fund CEO Marilene Acosta represented the fund. DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling witnessed the signing.
Under the agreement, BCDA will contribute development rights and, where applicable, existing site improvements and infrastructure. Pag-IBIG Fund will provide financing and technical expertise in housing and project finance. This division of responsibilities leverages the strengths of both agencies to accelerate development.
The partnership forms part of the 2026 National Shelter Month celebration, which carries the theme "Tahanan. Pamayanan. Kinabukasan." The collaboration aims to bring more Filipinos closer to safe, decent, affordable, and dignified homes.
A Day of Housing Milestones
The MOA signing was the first of three key activities led by Secretary Aliling on Thursday. Immediately after, he proceeded to the DHSUD Central Office to award 91 Transfer Certificates of Title to family-beneficiaries of homeowner associations in Quezon City and Caloocan City under the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program.
In the afternoon, Secretary Aliling went to Malacañang to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mindanao Development Authority Chairperson Leo Tereso Magno and Philippine Community Housing Corporation President and CEO Tan Chee Siong. The agreement establishes a framework for the Building Better Moro Homes initiative in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Expanding Housing Access Nationwide
The three activities reflect DHSUD's continuing efforts to expand housing opportunities across the country. From forging partnerships for large-scale development to helping families secure land tenure, the agency is addressing housing needs through multiple channels. Each initiative targets different segments of the population.
The BCDA-Pag-IBIG partnership is expected to unlock significant land resources for housing and mixed-use development. New Clark City, envisioned as a modern urban center, offers ample space for integrated communities. The project aligns with the government's goal of decentralizing growth and creating sustainable settlements outside Metro Manila.
A Boost for Mixed-Use Development
Beyond housing, the MOA allows for mixed-use development, which integrates residential, commercial, and institutional components. This approach creates self-sustaining communities where residents can live, work, and access services within close proximity. It reflects modern urban planning principles that prioritize convenience and quality of life.
Joining the signing were DHSUD Senior Undersecretary Eduardo Robles Jr., Pag-IBIG Fund Deputy CEOs Alexander Hilario Aguilar and Benjamin Felix Jr., BCDA Executive Vice President and COO Gisela Kalalo, and other officials. Their presence underscored the whole-of-government approach to addressing the housing backlog.
