Pag-IBIG Fund rolls out P95.7B for housing

CEBU, Philippines — The Pag-IBIG Fund has earmarked ?95.7 billion for housing in the next quarter, as it opened its two-day Housing Fair 2026 Visayas on April 30 to May 1, aimed at expanding access to affordable homeownership for Filipino families.

Speaking at the event, Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene Acosta said the Visayas remains a priority area in the agency’s housing initiatives, noting that the allocation will support thousands of housing units, including those under local government projects.

“These financial figures are not just numbers, they serve as guides to our direction and reflect our shared commitment to uplift lives, improve livelihoods, and build stronger communities,” Acosta said.

She emphasized that the housing fair brings government programs closer to the public, supporting inclusive and sustainable development while addressing the growing demand for affordable housing.

Acosta said Pag-IBIG continues to enhance its housing programs through subsidized units, low interest rates starting at 4.5% per annum, and special financing packages for qualified borrowers, including overseas Filipino workers.

Under a subsidized housing program offering a three-percent interest rate, borrowers may reduce their monthly amortization by around ?1,804.21, translating to savings of over ?108,000 over time. For condominium units worth around ?1.8 million, monthly payments may drop to approximately ?7,500 for the first five years --significantly lower than the ?13,625 typical under regular loan rates.

The agency also offers flexible loan packages, including affordable monthly payments, loan amounts of up to ?1.8 million, and dedicated allocations for first-time borrowers and OFWs.

Acosta noted that Pag-IBIG continues to process thousands of housing loan applications monthly, reflecting sustained demand across various sectors.

The housing fair gathered 47 developers showcasing more than 170 housing projects, signaling what officials described as “ready and viable developments” backed by actual budgets and aligned with government housing programs.

“We are not simply presenting plans, we are showcasing developments that are ready for implementation,” Acosta said, underscoring the role of partnerships among national agencies, local governments, and private developers.

Meanwhile, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro highlighted the importance of housing in building resilient communities, especially in the aftermath of disasters.

“Housing is not just a structure, it is security, stability, and a place where dreams are built,” Baricuatro said, “when a family has a home, there is a stronger sense of dignity, safety, and hope. And when communities are stable, we are able to build a stronger Cebu.”

She expressed full support for the initiative, stressing that development should be inclusive and accessible to as many Cebuano families as possible.

She also encouraged attendees to maximize the opportunity by exploring housing options and engaging with participating developers and agencies.

Organizers said the Visayas housing fair forms part of broader efforts to expand homeownership and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, with more initiatives expected in the coming months to reach underserved communities. (FREEMAN)