Romualdez Files Bill Giving ₱3,500 Monthly Rent Subsidy to Informal Settlers in Metro Manila — A Bridge Until Permanent Housing Arrives

Informal settler families in Metro Manila could soon receive a ₱3,500 monthly rent subsidy under House Bill 7230, filed by Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez together with Tingog Representatives Yedda Marie Romualdez, Andrew Julian Romualdez, and Jude Acidre. The bill aims to create a Rental Housing Subsidy Program under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The idea is straightforward: give low-income and displaced families financial help to afford decent housing in the formal rental market while they wait for permanent government housing. "Financial aid to low-income families helps afford decent housing in the rental market, acting as a flexible safety net when permanent solutions are not immediate," the bill's authors said.

The ₱3,500 monthly subsidy would apply to informal settler families (ISFs) in the National Capital Region. For other regions, the amount will be determined by the DHSUD and NEDA based on prevailing minimum wages and rental rates. The subsidy cannot exceed the actual rent, and beneficiaries must pay whatever portion isn't covered.

There are rules: ISFs cannot move back to their original locations unless permitted by authorities, and those who maintain good payment standings get prioritized for permanent government housing programs. The subsidy continues until permanent housing is completed or until the family actually transfers — and can be extended if construction is delayed.

Funding would come from the annual national budget. Whether ₱3,500 is enough in today's Metro Manila rental market is debatable — pero for families currently living along esteros, railroad tracks, and riverbanks, it could mean the difference between a danger zone and a roof over their heads. At least it's a start.

Source: The Manila Times