31,000 more houses being built for cops and soldiers

TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Philippines—More than 31,000 housing units are under construction in the second phase of the government’s housing program for soldiers and policemen but it will also now include jail guards and firemen, President Benigno Aquino III said Friday.

President Aquino made the announcement at the ceremonial turnover of housing units for soldiers and police officers in a new subdivision in this city in Cavite province. He said the program would now also involve sites in the Visayas and Mindanao.

The President reported that the government has already finished 21,400 housing units out of the planned 21,800 homes under the program’s first phase.

“If you assign work to someone but do not provide for his needs, it’s as if you are ensuring his failure,” the President said in his speech, delivered in Filipino. “On the other hand, if you focus on his needs and express your support, he will surely fulfill his responsibilities well.”

“That is the spirit we want to bring to life for our policemen and soldiers. As with other sectors, you should be given the capability to bring about your own advancement to be able to serve the country effectively,” he added.