Manila Mayor Isko Moreno led the raffle of 100 housing units on Wednesday, March 18, under Manila’s in-city vertical housing program, describing the event as one of the most fulfilling moments of his decades-long public service.
The raffle, conducted alongside Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, selected 100 beneficiaries from 1,554 verified applicants. The housing units are located in San Lazaro, Pedro Gil, and San Sebastian Residences.
Domagoso expressed deep personal satisfaction following the draw, recalling his own struggles growing up without stable housing. He emphasized that the program aims to provide families with the security and dignity he once lacked.
The mayor said the initiative is the culmination of nearly 30 years of advocacy, dating back to his tenure as city councilor and vice mayor, where he pushed for “Land for the Landless” policies. As mayor, he said, these efforts materialized through the development of in-city vertical housing projects.
Under the program, beneficiaries will occupy 42-square-meter units with two bedrooms, along with access to amenities such as health centers, function rooms, and security services. Monthly amortization ranges from ₱2,000 to ₱3,000—significantly lower than typical rental rates in the capital.
While ownership of the units remains with the city government to prevent resale or misuse, beneficiaries are protected under local ordinances, including provisions for family succession. Payments may also be refunded should occupants choose to relocate.
Domagoso assured both beneficiaries and non-selected applicants that the city will continue investing in essential services, including housing, education, healthcare, and employment. He added that future housing developments are already planned, with the goal of eventually relocating informal settlers living along waterways and under bridges.
The raffle, organized by the Manila Urban Settlements Office, was streamed live on Facebook to ensure transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants, including walk-ins and renters without property.
