For over five decades, the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association, Inc. (SHDA) has shaped the foundation of Filipino life: the home. This year, SHDA celebrates its 55th anniversary with renewed commitment to making inclusive, sustainable, and affordable housing a reality for every Filipino.
From humble beginnings to national impact
SHDA’s roots trace back to 1970 when visionary developers formed the Subdivision Owners Association of the Philippines (SOAP) to address unclear regulations and limited financing options. In 1985, SOAP became SHDA, broadening its mission to embrace the national housing agenda for all Filipino families.
SHDA played instrumental roles in landmark legislation, including strong advocacy for the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992 and implementation of the Balanced Housing Development Program, which requires developers to allocate portions of their investments to socialized housing.
Growth and innovation
Now the country’s largest housing organization, SHDA includes over 350 members across eight regional chapters and 30+ affiliate members. The association has fostered collaboration with key agencies including DHSUD, Pag-IBIG, NHMFC, BOI, NEDA, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
SHDA embraced innovation early, pushing for streamlined permits through One-Stop Shops and digitizing processes. During COVID-19, the association adapted quickly, hosting virtual dialogues and ensuring housing remained recognized as essential service.
Addressing the housing crisis
Responding to the 6.5 million unit housing backlog, SHDA spearheaded the Philippine Housing Industry Roadmap, first introduced in 2012 and regularly updated. The latest iteration (2025-2040) was unveiled at last year’s National Developers Convention in Davao City, outlining strategic goals to produce one million housing units annually.
Beyond housing: SHDA Cares
Through SHDA Cares, the association demonstrates corporate citizenship via disaster relief, environmental conservation, livelihood development, and pandemic support, reflecting commitment to uplifting Filipino communities nationwide.
Honoring the pillars of SHDA’s legacy
SHDA has been led by remarkable presidents and chairpersons who guided the association through pivotal moments in Philippine housing history. These include Joselito N. Hernandez (1970–1971); Victorio V. Soliven (1973, 1981–1982); Romulo B. Reyes (1978–1980); Amado S. Bagatsing (1983); Gabriel P. Casimiro (1984–1986); Benjamin P. Agleham (1987); Virgilio U. Goze (1988); Manuel B. Villar Jr. (1989); Eduardo H. Yap (1990); Jose S. de Guzman (1991, 1997); Reynaldo S. Guevarra (1992); Benigno T. Cabrieto (1993); Andrea V. Bernhard (1994); Federico C. Gonzales (1995); Marcelino C. Mendoza (1996); Guillermo C. Choa (1998); Mariano D. Martinez (1999–2000); Noel S. Gonzales (2001); Januario Jesus B. Atencio (2002); Teofisto Guingona III (2002); Marilu M. Alferez (2003–2004); Willie J. Uy (2005); Roy D. Calleja (2007); Eduardo M. Alunan (2008); Bansan Choa (2009); Manuel C. Crisostomo (2010); Paul H. Tanchi (2012–2013); Ricky M. Celis (2014); Armenia C. Ballesteros (2015); Rodel B. Racadio (2016); Christopher G. Narciso (2017); Jeffrey T. Ng (2018); Raphael B. Felix (2019); Rosie Tsai (2020); May P. Rodriguez (2021–2022); George Siy (2022); Ar. Leonardo B. Dayao Jr. (2023); Arlene Keh (2023); and Atty. Joy Manaog (2024).
Looking forward
SHDA celebrated its 55th anniversary on May 20, 2025, at Marquis Events Place, BGC. Under President Engr. Francis Richmond Villegas’ leadership, SHDA focuses on expanding networks, establishing regional chapters, and advocating for tax incentives, realistic price ceilings, and streamlined permits.
Guided by its legacy and driven by shared mission, SHDA builds not just houses but a resilient, inclusive future for generations of Filipinos.
Learn about membership at shda.ph or contact shda.secretariat@gmail.com / (02) 8856-1554
