Aquino OKs P4.2B for AFP-PNP Housing Project

MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino III has ordered the allocation of P4.2 billion to build 20,000 houses for soldiers and police officers, Malacañang said Tuesday.

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa said Mr. Aquino signed Administrative Order No. 9 on Monday, creating the AFP-PNP Housing Project that would provide permanent housing for soldiers and policemen who qualify based on criteria.

“It is the policy of this administration to improve the welfare of government employees, including military and police personnel,” said Ochoa in a statement.

“Providing decent and affordable shelter for soldiers and policemen is one way of carrying out such a policy, as we are aware that despite sincere efforts, there are still a large number of military and police personnel whose need for housing must be urgently attended to,” he said.

The AO mandates the National Housing Authority to take the lead in implementing the housing program.

Executive Order No. 90, enacted in December 1986, gives the NHA responsibility for the government’s socialized housing plan under the National Shelter Program.

President Aquino first announced the government’s housing program for soldiers and police officers in January.