SIA, Catherine Faith C.

ARC 1603 - Section 1

Arch. Leslie Santos
Formative Assessment 4: Position Paper: Re-integration of BLISS concept in 4PH housing program

In the 1980s, the Bagong Lipunan Improvement of Sites and Services (BLISS) project was launched by
former President Ferdinand Marcos to address the housing needs of low-income families and informal settlers in
Metro Manila. Today, amidst a growing housing crisis in the Philippines, there is a renewed interest in revitalizing
successful housing initiatives like BLISS to confront contemporary challenges. It advocates for the reintegration of the
BLISS concept into the 4PH housing program, highlighting its potential benefits, challenges, and the urgent need for
action.

BLISS, as a hallmark project of the 1980s, prioritized the development of mid-to high-rise buildings to offer
affordable and decent homes to informal settler families (ISFs) and low-income earners in Metro Manila. The project
envisioned the creation of functioning communities with access to various services, emphasizing the concept of
township and mixed-use developments. The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD)
has collaborated with local government units (LGUs) to construct low-cost housing under the Marcos government's
Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program. Additionally, the Home Development Mutual Fund or PAG-IBIG
Fund has allocated a substantial amount to support socialized housing programs.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar has announced the government's ambitious plan to build six million
housing units over the next six years. This includes the construction of mid-rise buildings, expected to be completed
by 2023, and high-rise structures with 25-30 floors likely to be completed within three years. These high-rise buildings
will accommodate 25 units per floor, catering to workers in metro cities with slightly higher wages. Furthermore, the
government is preparing an executive order to reserve idle state-owned lands, estimated to be more than 16,000
hectares, for housing projects. This initiative aims to lower the amortization of housing units and expedite the
development of affordable housing. The reintegration of the BLISS concept into the 4PH housing program offers
several potential benefits. Firstly, it ensures the preservation of affordable housing stock by leveraging existing
infrastructure and financing models. Secondly, redevelopment efforts can create vibrant communities with access to
various amenities and services, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and promoting social inclusion.
Lastly, the in-city relocation approach ensures that residents remain close to their jobs, livelihoods, and social
services, promoting inclusive urban development and mitigating socio-economic disparities among marginalized
communities.

However, the program also presents certain challenges. Financial constraints may pose difficulties in
securing funding for infrastructure upgrades and amenities, straining government resources. Additionally, involuntary
relocation of current residents raises ethical and logistical concerns, necessitating careful planning and community
engagement to ensure a smooth transition. Moreover, adhering to updated building codes and regulatory standards
may prolong project timelines and increase implementation costs, adding complexity to the redevelopment process.

In conclusion, the reintegration of the BLISS concept into the 4PH housing program holds significant
promise for addressing the housing crisis in the Philippines. While challenges exist, collaborative efforts between
government agencies, local communities, and private stakeholders can overcome these obstacles. A comprehensive
strategy encompassing careful planning, innovative financing mechanisms, and community engagement is essential
for the successful reintegration of the BLISS concept into the 4PH housing program, ultimately paving the way
towards inclusive urban development and affordable housing for all Filipinos.