WITH the Philippines facing a huge problem of over 6.5 million housing backlogs, the housing developers’ group, Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA), is using its 55th anniversary to push harder for solutions, guided by their new long-term plan.
“Our history is rooted in advocacy,” said SHDA president engineer Francis Richmond Villegas. “But at 55, we are not just looking back, we’re looking ahead. The housing crisis is growing, and it requires an organized, data-driven, and inclusive response. SHDA remains committed to leading that effort.”
SHDA’s 55th anniversary celebration is slated on May 20. SHDA is composed of 350 members nationwide.
The association said it continues to be a central force in shaping housing policy, streamlining regulations and promoting sustainable and affordable housing development nationwide.
SHDA chairman architect Leonardo Dayao Jr., stressed the pressing need to dismantle structural barriers hindering housing production.
“When we began, it was simpler; developers worked with a centralized housing office. Today, while there are multiple checkpoints, from local government approvals to zoning and environmental permits, these processes are crucial for sustainable development. However, to close the housing gap, we need streamlined systems, political will, and stronger public-private collaboration to navigate the challenges we face together,” Dayao emphasized.
The Philippine Housing Industry Roadmap 2025–2040 was unveiled during last year’s National Developers Convention. The roadmap served as a blueprint to identify critical bottlenecks in housing delivery and outline long-term strategies to meet the escalating demand while aligning with broader economic objectives.
“The roadmap isn’t just a wish list, it’s a plan of action,” Villegas noted. “It offers practical solutions to make housing more accessible, sustainable and inclusive, especially in the provinces. We want this to be a living document, guiding government and developers alike.”
Currently, SHDA is prioritizing regional empowerment through its eight regional chapters, aiming to address local concerns and extend services to developers at the grassroots level.
The association remains a strong advocate for the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program and has successfully lobbied for policies easing burdens on both developers and homebuyers, including the recent adjustment of price ceilings for socialized and low-cost housing under DHSUD-NEDA Joint Memorandum Circular 2024-001.
Moreover, the organization is actively embracing innovation to modernize the housing industry. This includes advocating for green building practices and the use of indigenous materials, as well as exploring the potential of artificial intelligence to streamline construction processes.
SHDA said it eyes study tours to countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam to facilitate the adoption of international best practices among local developers. / KOC