Manila's Innovative Approach to Affordable Housing

Mar 9, 2026

84 min

Mar 9, 2026 12:30

Solving Manila’s housing challenge: Low-cost vertical development works

## Addressing Urban Housing Needs

Manila faces a significant housing challenge, with around 3 million residents living in informal settlements. These communities have developed over decades along riverbanks, railways, and unused government land. However, a new approach is emerging to tackle this issue.

## Vertical Housing Solutions

The City of Manila is pioneering in-city vertical housing projects like Tondominium, Binondominium, and San Lazaro Residences. These initiatives aim to provide affordable housing within the urban core, allowing low-income families to remain close to jobs, schools, and essential services. This model prevents the need for relocation to distant areas and helps maintain social mobility.

## Collaborative Efforts

Other cities, such as San Juan, are also exploring similar strategies. They are working with national agencies and universities to develop affordable housing prototypes. The Port Town Housing Project in Tondo, Manila, is an example of a joint venture aiming to deliver thousands of units for informal settlers.

## Utilizing Public Land

To expand these solutions, the government plans to utilize idle public lands, such as old government lots and railway corridors, for vertical housing projects. This approach maximizes land value and provides homes for low-income families.

## Integrating Transport and Housing

The integration of housing with mass transit development is crucial. Projects like the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway are expected to transform commuting patterns. Transit-oriented housing near these rail corridors could reduce travel time and congestion.

## Encouraging Private Investment

Policy reforms, such as the ARROW Act, aim to facilitate the acquisition of land for development. Public-private partnerships are essential, with incentives like land grants and tax breaks encouraging private developers to participate in socialized housing programs.

## Future Prospects...

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents