The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has issued a groundbreaking directive requiring all housing projects across the country to adopt senior citizen- and persons with disability (PWD)-friendly designs—a significant policy move hailed as one of the key accomplishments of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration.
Formalized under Department Circular No. 2024-017 and signed by DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar on November 21, 2024, the policy mandates housing developers and homeowners’ associations to incorporate accessible, hazard-free, and health-conscious features in both private and government housing developments nationwide.
The directive underscores the Marcos administration’s broader vision of “Bagong Pilipinas”—a campaign focused on inclusivity, sustainability, and people-centered governance.
It highlights a deliberate effort to address long-standing gaps in housing infrastructure that often overlook the needs of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.
Secretary Acuzar emphasized that the circular goes beyond mere compliance with building standards, aiming for a holistic approach to well-being of all Filipinos homeowners.
“This initiative aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s vision for a ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’ where no Filipino is left behind, and where housing projects are not only physically accessible but also foster dignity, independence, and overall well-being for vulnerable sectors,” Acuzar said.
In Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, Valley View Township project offers wide park area, accessible and ideal for recreation, and health and wellness activities for all residents.
Under DC 2024-017, developers and homeowners’ associations are required to:
- Design accessible pathways, ramps, and entrances that comply with universal design standards.
- Provide hazard-free spaces within common areas to minimize risks for individuals with mobility challenges.
- Incorporate health and wellness features, such as dedicated recreational areas for seniors and accessible community health facilities.
- Ensure cleanliness, sanitation, and safety measures across all shared spaces.
For projects under the flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, Secretary Acuzar ordered the establishment of seniors- and PWD-friendly amenities, open parks, playground and clubhouse for beneficiaries to enjoy green community living.
ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE
These provisions are aimed not just at compliance with regulations but at enhancing the quality of life for homeowners, especially the seniors and PWDs, enabling them to live independently and participate actively in their communities.
The directive is widely viewed as a reflection of the Marcos Jr.’s administration’s commitment to embedding social responsibility into urban planning and development.
It represents a significant step toward a more inclusive and equitable housing policy framework, addressing not just infrastructure gaps but also social equity concerns.
WELCOME DEVELOPMENT
Experts in urban development have welcomed the circular, noting its potential to set a precedent for future housing policies in the Philippines.
Housing advocates have also expressed optimism that the initiative will encourage developers to go beyond minimum compliance and integrate truly inclusive designs into their projects.
As the DHSUD begins rolling out this directive, stakeholders across the housing sector are expected to align their projects with the new standards, marking a transformative chapter in the country’s urban development landscape—one where inclusivity is not an afterthought but a fundamental principle. (PTV)
