Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on Wednesday warned the public against individuals or groups of people taking advantage of the rollout of the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program of the government.
Acuzar said the DHSUD will not tolerate any form of corruption or other illegal schemes in the implementation of 4PH –the flagship housing program of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
He vowed to take appropriate action, including filing of proper charges if needed, against those who would be found taking advantage of the housing program for their own selfish agenda.
“At DHSUD, we don’t tolerate any form of graft and corruption. We encourage everyone to report any suspicion against unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of the 4PH Program for their illegal activities,” he said.
“We will act accordingly against them, and we will not hesitate to file proper cases if necessary,” he warned.
He urged the public to report to DHSUD any suspicious activities by individuals and groups, or even officials and staff members of DHSUD, regarding the implementation of 4PH, particularly those who misrepresent themselves to have involvement in the program and asking fees for registration.
“Transact only with LGUs with regards to beneficiaries and contractors,” he noted.
He said DHSUD offices are open to cater to stakeholders seeking details regarding the housing program, through its 16 regional offices nationwide where they can officially inquire about 4PH.
“Don’t engage private individuals or groups to register under 4PH… just proceed to your local government units, they are the ones in-charge in identifying beneficiaries and selecting contractors,” he added.
“There are no registration or membership fees needed for 4PH,” he said.
For contractors and developers, t DHSUD is not responsible for the selection of who would undertake the housing projects as it is still the LGUs as primary proponents that are given the authority to choose their private-partners, he said.
“DHSUD has no power to award/appoint contractor-developer. It is the LGU which has authority to engage with contractor/developer consistent with the law and existing rules and regulations,” the housing czar said. Rio N. Araja