The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) is a government-owned and controlled corporation in the Philippines that provides financing for socialized housing programs. Created through Executive Order No. 272 in 2004, SHFC was established to take over the social housing functions from the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC). It was officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2005 and has since become a key shelter agency under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), with the goal of helping low-income Filipino families access affordable housing and improve their quality of life.
SHFC was founded in response to the growing need for sustainable housing solutions for the country’s formal and informal sectors, especially those living in danger zones and poverty-stricken communities. Its main objective is to provide flexible, affordable, and innovative financing options that support community-led housing development, promote inclusive growth, and strengthen partnerships between the government and stakeholders. Understanding what SHFC is all about is important because it helps Filipinos—especially those in need—explore viable housing assistance programs and financial support options to achieve home ownership and long-term housing security. If you belong to a low-income Filipino family and you’re wondering what SHFC is all about, how it works, and how it provides housing assistance and financial support in the Philippines, then this article will tell you everything you need to know.
SHFC Operations in the Philippines
SHFC has been actively operating as a GOCC that implements housing finance programs catering to low-income families, particularly those in informal settlements. In its early years, SHFC focused on transferring and managing the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) to support organized communities in acquiring land and building safe housing. Over time, it expanded its reach through programs like the Localized CMP, High Density Housing (HDH), and the Abot Kaya Pabahay Fund, adapting its services to meet the growing housing needs of various sectors. Today, SHFC continues to contribute to national housing goals through the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH), achieving milestones such as awarding thousands of housing units and supporting numerous community associations nationwide.
Historical Background
The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) was established through Executive Order No. 272 signed on January 20, 2004, to strengthen the government’s commitment to provide affordable housing for low-income Filipino families. It was created to take over key social housing functions from the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC), particularly the management of the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) and Abot Kaya Pabahay Fund (AKPF). SHFC was officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on June 21, 2005, and held its first board meeting shortly after its inauguration in October of the same year. The agency was formed to provide a more focused and efficient approach to financing socialized housing, especially for informal settlers and underprivileged communities. Since then, SHFC has introduced various innovative housing programs aimed at creating sustainable, community-driven shelter solutions across the country.
SHFC’s Mandate
SHFC was created to take over the implementation of social housing programs previously handled by the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC). These include the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) and the Abot Kaya Pabahay Fund (AKPF).
The agency is tasked with developing, financing, and administering housing assistance programs for both formal and informal sectors, particularly those in the low-income bracket.
Vision
“By 2040, SHFC aims to be the lead key shelter agency implementing transformative and sustainable housing solutions that contribute to inclusive growth and development.”
Mission
“SHFC empowers women and men to build Resilient, Inclusive, Sustainable, and Empowered (RISE) communities by providing Flexible, Affordable, Innovative, and Responsive (FAIR) housing solutions through strong partnerships with public and private stakeholders.
As a dedicated housing agency, we are committed to serving people with professionalism and managing resources prudently. We promote a culture of accountability and transparency, prioritizing the best interests of our communities and other stakeholders. We value our employees and ensure that the organization operates efficiently and effectively to fulfill its mandate.
We foster inclusive growth through accessible and community-driven housing solutions that significantly improve the quality of life.”
Core Values
As a government agency, the SHFC operates while following these core values:
- Service: Commitment to ethical, professional public service.
- Honor: Adherence to ethical standards and public accountability.
- Fairness: Equal access to housing for all, regardless of gender identity.
- Competence: Pursuit of excellence through innovation and efficient resource use.
Quality Policy
SHFC also commits to uplifting the lives of low-income communities by providing equal access to decent and sustainable housing. This includes:
- Compliance with laws and regulations
- Promoting gender equality
- Continuous improvement of services and operations
Mandate
SHFC is mandated to lead the implementation of socialized housing programs for low-income individuals from both the formal and informal sectors. It is responsible for developing and managing financing schemes such as the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) and the Abot Kaya Pabahay Fund (AKPF). The agency’s goal is to provide accessible, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions that support community development and inclusive growth.
Powers and Functions
The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) is endowed with specific powers and functions to effectively manage and implement social housing programs in the Philippines and address the housing needs of low-income Filipino families. These include:
- Developing and administering social housing schemes targeted at low-income sectors, particularly through programs like the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) and the Abot-Kaya Pabahay Fund (AKPF).
- Managing the capitalization, powers, and functions as determined by its parent company, the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC), to ensure alignment with national housing policies.
- Collaborating with various stakeholders, including local government units, non-governmental organizations, and private entities, to promote and facilitate the development of affordable housing projects.
- Overseeing the transfer and administration of specific housing programs and funds from the NHMFC, ensuring their effective implementation and sustainability.
- Establishing policies and guidelines for the efficient execution of social housing initiatives, aiming to improve the living conditions of underprivileged communities.
Organizational Structure
The SHFC operates under a structured hierarchy designed to efficiently manage its social housing initiatives across the Philippines. At the helm is the President and Chief Executive Officer who oversees the corporation’s overall strategic direction. Supporting him is the Senior Vice President for the Support Cluster who manages various support services. The organization is further divided into specialized departments, each led by competent professionals responsible for specific operational areas.
For instance, the Legal Affairs Group ensures legal compliance and addresses all legal matters. The Internal Audit Department maintains financial integrity and accountability. Additionally, the Corporate Planning and Communications division focuses on strategic planning and public relations. This organizational structure ensures that SHFC’s operations are effectively managed, aligning with its mission to provide affordable housing solutions to low-income families.
Logo
The SHFC logo reflects the agency’s mission to provide safe and affordable housing for Filipino families. The red house-shaped letter “H” stands for shelter, with an open door symbolizing inclusivity and opportunity. Green silhouettes of people, including a person with a disability, emphasize diversity and community. The green hill base represents stability, growth, and a strong foundation for better living. Lastly, the full name “Social Housing Finance Corporation” reinforces the agency’s identity as a reliable housing finance institution.
Benefits and Coverage
As a GOCC, the SHFC provides a wide range of benefits, including:
- Affordable amortization terms
- Access to land ownership
- Opportunities for community development
- Disaster-resilient and flood-safe housing units
- Financial assistance for site and building development
SHFC also supports institutional partners such as developers, cooperatives, and LGUs in delivering housing solutions nationwide.
Programs and Services
The agency also provides a range of housing loan and financial assistance programs designed for low-income individuals and communities in the country. These programs which aim to offer sustainable housing solutions while building stronger community ties, include:
1. Community Mortgage Program (CMP)
CMP supports organized low-income groups in acquiring land and building homes through community ownership. It helps families living in informal settlements gain legal ownership of the land they occupy.
CMP also promotes partnership with local government units (LGUs) and civil society to implement sustainable housing initiatives.
2. Localized Community Mortgage Program (LCMP)
An expanded version of CMP, the LCMP allows LGUs to participate more directly in housing development by helping organize community associations and facilitating loan processing.
3. High Density Housing Program (HDH)
HDH provides vertical housing solutions for informal settler families (ISFs), especially those living in danger zones and flood-prone areas in Metro Manila. The program aims to relocate families into safe, multi-story housing developments funded by a multi-billion peso housing budget.
4. Abot Kaya Pabahay Fund – Development Loan Program (AKPF-DLP)
This program supports developers, LGUs, and private entities in building low-cost housing projects. SHFC provides loan financing for land development and construction, making it easier to supply affordable housing units in urban areas.
5. Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program
Under the 4PH Program, SHFC contributes to the government’s flagship housing project launched by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The program aims to provide accessible home financing options to both formal and informal sector workers.
Who Can Apply for SHFC Programs?
Housing assistance is also made available by the agency to a wide range of individuals, including:
- Government and private sector employees
- Members of the informal sector
- Residents in danger zones, those affected by demolitions, or displaced by natural disasters
Applicant Requirements:
One simply needs to satisfy the following criteria:
- Must be a Filipino citizen aged 18-65
- Must not have previously availed any government housing assistance
- Must not own real property
- Must not be affiliated with squatting syndicates
- Must be a member of a Community Association (CA) registered with DHSUD or any government agency
Video: SHFC Pambansang Pabahay
SHFC continues to be a significant force in improving access to affordable housing in the Philippines. Through a range of socialized housing programs and loan assistance options, the Social Housing Finance Corporation supports low-income communities in building safe, inclusive, and sustainable homes. Whether you’re a part of the informal sector or a public/private employee looking for housing opportunities, SHFC offers flexible and accessible options to help you achieve home ownership. Learn more about this from SHFC President and CEO, Federico Laxa, himself by watching this video posted on the SHFC Public Affairs Youtube channel:
Contact Information
For inquiries or other concerns, you may also reach out to SHFC directly via the following:
Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC)
Office Address: BDO Plaza, 8737 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City, 1226 Philippines
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except holidays)
Phone Numbers: (02) 7750–6337 local 888, (02) 5322-7300 to 399
Email: contact@shfcph.com
Official Website: https://www.shfc.dhsud.gov.ph/
Social Media Pages:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shfcph/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGLGR3vjl_AbjnYuiLF-0Q