Philippine E-Journals

Performance of the Provincial Housing Board of Batangas and Attached Office: A Basis For Enhancement

Ronnel A. Del Rio

Discipline: social policy

 

Abstract:

The right to decent housing remains a fundamental need and aspiration among Filipino families, yet persistent gaps in implementation hinder its realization, especially in fast-growing provinces like Batangas. This study assessed the performance of the Batangas Provincial Housing Board and the Provincial Housing Office to propose an action plan that enhances their functions. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered from local government implementers and homeowners’ associations via validated questionnaires. Results revealed that while the Housing Office was rated effective, particularly in technical support, planning, and fund mobilization, the Housing Board was assessed as less effective in policy formulation, enforcement, and coordination. Operational challenges were also identified, including inadequate personnel, outdated infrastructure, inconsistent reporting, and a lack of technical capacity in land mapping. Moreover, the absence of a Provincial Shelter Plan and the failure of municipalities to establish their own housing offices highlighted systemic deficiencies. Despite these gaps, the Housing Office demonstrated strong performance in accessing housing funds and capability-building initiatives, which may serve as foundations for improvement. The study recommends reviewing the institutional structures, enhancing coordination mechanisms, and ensuring continuous capacity development. It concludes that responsive and well-resourced housing governance is critical to addressing urbanization, informal settlements, and sustainability challenges. A proposed action plan was formulated to serve as a strategic direction for improving housing delivery and policy implementation in Batangas Province.