Beyond Counting Houses: Are We Providing Adequate Housing? An Assessment of Residential Satisfaction of Socialized Housing in Davao City, Philippines

Abstract

Since 1992, the socialized housing program has been the primary mode of housing delivery in the Philippines. Thus, aside from production concerns, the evaluation of the housing program in terms of housing adequacy is imperative. This paper explores the level of end-users' satisfaction with socialized housing in Davao City, Philippines. Respondents were asked to rate their level of satisfaction with a number of housing variables, which were summarized into six components using Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Results showed that most end-users are “highly satisfied” with their living conditions. Residents’ satisfaction is primarily influenced by the social environment, acquisition and financing, and dwelling units. However, satisfaction levels vary significantly among different house types, with those living in rowhouses being moderately satisfied. This paper also highlights how socialized housing delivery deviated from its mandate by functioning as a free market, leaving out its intended beneficiaries: the underprivileged population. Therefore, this calls for a review of the current socialized housing standards by the Philippines’ central housing agency, the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development, to improve the current housing delivery and condition.