AFFORDABLE PUBLIC APARTMENTS FOR RENT: A PATH TO ADDRESS HOUSING NEEDS

AFFORDABLE PUBLIC APARTMENTS FOR RENT: A PATH TO ADDRESS HOUSING NEEDS

Affordable Public Apartments for Rent: A Path to Address Housing Needs

Housing is a fundamental human need, yet owning a home remains out of reach for many. The Philippine government has made strides in addressing this issue through single-detached houses and condominium projects. However, one crucial gap remains: affordable public apartments for rent.

Condos to Buy, Apartments to Rent

Traditionally, condominiums are for sale while apartments are for rent. Buying a condo entails significant upfront costs and long-term financial commitments. On the other hand, renting an apartment offers a more flexible and affordable option, particularly for young professionals, newlyweds, or those with unstable employment.

The reality is that not everyone can or should buy a house or condo. Many Filipinos would benefit from affordable rental housing that provides a safe and comfortable place to stay without the pressure of ownership.

Redefining "Homelessness"

The government should broaden its perspective on homelessness. A shanty (barong-barong) or a tent may provide shelter, but it does not meet the minimum standards of a home. Homelessness should be defined as lacking a decent place to stay, regardless of ownership. By focusing on creating affordable rental housing, the government can ensure that more Filipinos have access to dignified living conditions.

Affordable Apartments as a Solution

Affordable rental apartments can address the housing backlog and uplift millions of Filipinos. These apartments should:

1.   Be within reach of minimum-wage earners. Affordable rent can significantly reduce poverty by freeing up income for other essentials.

2.   Include utilities and amenities. Access to water, electricity, internet, waste management, and even shuttle services can enhance the quality of life.

3.   Promote community and sustainability. On-site bakeries, pharmacies, clinics, and schools can reduce costs and foster community. Utilizing solar energy, biogas, and electric vehicles can make living costs more sustainable.

Learning from Global Success

Countries like the United States, Spain, and Chile provide valuable lessons in public rental housing:

  • Via Verde, New York City: A mixed-income development with green roofs, solar panels, and community spaces.
  • Mirador Housing Project, Madrid: Innovative design that includes communal spaces for residents.
  • Quinta Monroy, Chile: Affordable housing with expandable units for future needs.

These projects prove that affordable rental housing can be a profitable and sustainable endeavor for governments.

Why Public Apartments Make Sense

1.   A Practical Approach: Not all housing needs should lead to ownership. The government should recognize that meeting the housing demand often means providing places to stay rather than homes to buy.

2.   Sustainability of Assets: Apartments can remain public assets for decades, serving multiple generations without the need for constant rebuilding.

3.   Revenue Generation: Properly managed, public rental apartments can become self-sustaining profit centers, like New York City’s model.

What the Government Can Do

1.   Assess Demand: The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) should measure the true housing backlog, focusing on those who need a place to stay rather than those who want to buy.

2.   Build Strategically: Utilize government lands for high-density apartment buildings, incorporating sustainable designs and amenities.

3.   Involve Experts: Mandate agencies like NEDA or PIDS to study the feasibility of public rental housing and learn from international successes.

4.   Empower Cooperatives: Encourage resident cooperatives to manage utilities and services within the apartments, fostering community ownership and reducing operational costs.

A Vision for the Future

Affordable public apartments for rent offer a transformative solution to the housing crisis. By prioritizing affordability, sustainability, and accessibility, the government can provide millions of Filipinos with the dignity of a safe and comfortable home.

The time has come to shift the housing paradigm from ownership to accessibility—because a home is not about owning walls but about having a place to belong.

Ramon Ike V. Seneres
iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com

02-11-2025

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