To keep up with the high demand of construction workers once the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program goes full force this year, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is partnering with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to develop and enhance skilled workers in the housing industry.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said he is anticipating a sudden increase in demand of construction workers as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr’s. “Pambansang Pabahay” is expected to go on full blast in the coming months.

“Isa po sa nakikita naming problema sa ngayon ang kakulangan sa manggagawa kapag nag-full blast na ang ating construction. We have a problem with availability of skilled workers,” Secretary Acuzar said.

DHSUD has initiated talks with TESDA Director General Danilo Cruz as early as October last year as a proactive measure to empower construction workers in preparation for the workforce requirement of housing project development.

Secretary Acuzar said TESDA has expressed the agency’s will work together to support in augmenting the housing and construction industries’ present work force as well as improve their skillset.

“Right now, we are looking at all angles and aspects to prepare for the beginning of actual implementation of the Pambansang Pabahay on the ground. We are fast-tracking construction so that we can adjust with the projected increase in cost. We need enough workers to ensure that we build and provide the houses on time for our kababayans,” Secretary Acuzar said.

The program is expected to create 1.7 million jobs for carpenters, plumbers and electricians once construction begins.

As of February 15, DHSUD has broken ground for 17 housing projects with various local government units, and signed 70 Memorandums of Understanding under the Pambansang Pabahay. (PIA Gitnang Luzon)