Quezon City and the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman recently signed a 25-year usufruct agreement that will pave the way for the construction of at least 300 temporary housing units. The two parties have joined forces to address the housing needs of informal settler families (ISFs) residing within the campus.

This initiative aims to give displaced families, including those affected by the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Diliman project and a May 2022 fire, decent housing and essential services.

“This is a long-term but temporary solution, and it will give us breathing space to imagine a far more comprehensive resolution, a very humane, just, and legal way to address the issues of informal settlers,” said UP President Angelo A. Jimenez.

The agreement outlines the roles of each party. Quezon City will lead the relocation, build housing units, and oversee temporary sites with utilities. UP will provide land for these sites, ensure policy compliance by Quezon City, and can end the agreement if needed.

“We have come here today, asking you to trust us as we embark on this shared journey of looking for ways to solve the biggest problem for me in Quezon City, which is helping our less fortunate brothers and sisters secure housing,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte.

The TRS in Pook Arboretum covers about 12,236 meters, and Pook Marilag’s TRS is nearly three times larger, spanning 36,175 square meters. Both sites were approved by the UP Board of Regents in April this year.

Social media weighs in

The project, however, raised netizen concerns about beneficiary screening, security within the UP community and the long-term impact after 25 years.

Some expressed worries about a potential increase in the number of settlers due to a “multiplier effect.” Others questioned whether this initiative might incentivize more informal settlers to relocate to the area.

There were also comments advocating for regular employees who need affordable housing near the university. 

“Maraming mga regular employees need ng malapit na matitirahan. Mabuti pa ang mga ISFs [Many regular employees need nearby housing. Informal settlers are better off],” Addie Santos Saliva wrote.

The partnership between UP Diliman and Quezon City marks a major effort to improve living conditions for displaced informal settlers on campus. 

The project aims to provide these families a safe place temporarily while seeking a permanent solution for informal settlements.