SHFC Advances Capacity-Building Initiatives for Communities
The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) has unveiled new capacity-building initiatives focused on education and livelihood to uplift low-income families living in government housing communities. This effort is supported by international artist and philanthropist Apl.de.Ap, who recently partnered with SHFC to empower these communities.
On June 5, SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa and Apl.de.Ap formalized their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at SHFC’s head office in Makati City. The partnership highlights the SHFC’s commitment to go beyond just providing shelter by fostering self-sustaining and empowered communities through the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.
Building Stronger Communities Through Education and Livelihood
Guided by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), SHFC will implement programs that focus on housing and community development, youth education and empowerment, livelihood and skills training, as well as advocacy and public engagement. These efforts aim to enhance the quality of life in government resettlement sites.
“This partnership will be very meaningful for SHFC as it is the start of an undertaking that will take care of our beneficiaries beyond what we have provided them,” Laxa shared, emphasizing the importance of improving living conditions in these communities.
Apl.de.Ap’s Role and Vision for the Initiative
Apl.de.Ap, originally from Pampanga and a member of the Grammy-winning group The Black Eyed Peas, expressed his strong support for the initiative. He sees this partnership as a continuation of his advocacy to open opportunities for underserved youth.
“I can’t wait to start helping people like me growing up—to build homes and walls so we could dream and have opportunity,” he said, expressing gratitude for SHFC’s trust in his team.
Pilot Program in Pampanga Sets the Stage
The program’s pilot site will be located in Pampanga, serving as a model for future communities that are sustainable, inclusive, and socially responsive. This approach aims to create lasting impact by combining community development with education and livelihood programs.
Together, SHFC and Apl.de.Ap are paving the way for a comprehensive support system that addresses more than just housing—it nurtures hope, skills, and resilience among low-income Filipino families.
For more news and updates on social housing finance corporation, visit Filipinokami.com.