THE housing sector at the regional level also serves as a critical driver in the country’s economic progress. But to sustain its growth, the umbrella organization of housing developers believed there needs to be continued implementation of innovative and sustainable strategies.
This will be one of the key discussions in the upcoming 31st Subdivision and Housing Developers Association Inc. (SHDA)-Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) National Developers Convention on Oct. 5 and 6, 2023 in Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu.
At least 300 developers, policymakers, suppliers and key figures from the housing sector are expected to join the summit that carries the theme: “Lokal na Bai: Building National Growth Through Regional Development.”
SHDA chairman Arlene Keh said the summit will be an opportunity to discuss key themes, from regional empowerment to sustainable solutions, in the housing industry. It also aims to explore innovative strategies that can stimulate economic progress at the local level while contributing to overall national development.
“This (summit) brings together the brightest minds in the housing industry that will harness the potential of local communities, driving progress that resonates far beyond geographical boundaries. We at SHDA are embracing this moment with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that our collaborative efforts will pave the way for more inclusive and sustainable housing in the country,” said Keh.
This year’s National Developers Convention in Cebu will be the third edition held in the city, following the successful events in 2008 and 2015.
SHDA is the largest and leading industry association for housing and urban development in the Philippines. It has about 350 members nationwide with eight regional chapters.
Roadmap update
The organization, according to Keh, is presently updating the 10-year housing industry roadmap to keep up with the ever-evolving landscape in the housing industry, taking into account the new emerging trends and new developments.
The housing industry roadmap was initially created to cover the period 2012-2030 in collaboration with the Centre for Research and Communication.
According to Keh, meeting the young working middle-class needs and addressing challenges with immediate intervention aligned with the housing roadmap. She also highlighted the importance of tackling climate change and embracing disruptive technologies for improved construction and project management.
SHDA’s housing industry roadmap centers on four crucial pillars: ensuring access to land for settlements and streamlining the permitting process; finding sustainable and affordable housing solutions; boosting the production of resilient and innovative housing communities; and incentivizing private sector engagement in segments grappling with high housing backlogs. (KOC)