Are you part of an Indigenous Peoples (IP) community, seeking a secure and culturally sensitive place to call home?
Do you dream of a housing program that understands and respects your unique traditions and needs?
The Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (HAPIP) is here to transform that dream into reality.
Designed by the National Housing Authority (NHA), this program provides culturally tailored housing solutions for Indigenous Peoples, ensuring inclusivity and empowerment.
Whether you’re an Agta family in need of housing within ancestral domains or an IP student requiring safe dormitory accommodations, HAPIP offers accessible, practical solutions at no cost to eligible beneficiaries.
If you’ve ever struggled with inadequate housing or worried about maintaining cultural traditions in modern settings, this program could be your answer.

Understanding HAPIP: What It Offers
Culturally Tailored Housing
HAPIP ensures housing designs align with the cultural practices of the beneficiaries.
For example, in 2023, the program delivered 50 duplex-style houses to Agta families in Cagayan, reflecting their traditions and values.
These housing solutions are often situated within ancestral domains, preserving the connection between the community and their land.
Dormitories for IP Students
The program also supports Indigenous students pursuing higher education by providing dormitory accommodations in State Universities and Colleges.
These dorms create a safe, nurturing environment, helping students focus on their academic goals.
Sustainability and Community Development
HAPIP doesn’t just provide housing—it builds sustainable communities.
Each project involves collaboration with local government units (LGUs), the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and tribal leaders, ensuring long-term success.
Eligibility
HAPIP is designed to serve Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICC) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
To qualify, you must:
- Be a recognized member of an Indigenous Cultural Community.
- Reside within an ancestral domain or land approved by your community and LGU.
- Secure certifications from the NCIP or provide a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) or Claim (CADC).
- Have your application endorsed by your local government.
HAPIP ensures that the right people receive support, focusing on those who genuinely need it.
If you meet these criteria, this program could be your first step toward secure, sustainable housing.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Start by downloading the Housing Assistance Form from the NHA website.
Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Certification from NCIP or CADT/CADC.
- A notarized Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) involving the NHA, LGU, NCIP, and tribal leaders.
- A Sangguniang Bayan Resolution authorizing the LGU’s involvement.
- A beneficiary list endorsed by your LGU.
- A site investigation report and related permits.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Scan and email your application and documents to the NHA District Office for your area.
Contact details for regional offices are available on the NHA website.
Step 4: Await Notification
Once your application is reviewed, the NHA will notify you about the next steps.
Housing Assistance Form
This document/form is a key step in accessing the Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (HAPIP).
You can download the form directly from the NHA website.
It provides clear instructions and serves as the foundation for your application process.
Ensure you complete all sections thoroughly and use the form as a checklist to gather necessary supporting documents before submission.
For additional guidance or clarification, refer to your local NHA office’s contact information provided on the website.

Benefits of HAPIP: Why It Matters
Improving Living Conditions
Many IPs live in remote areas with limited access to adequate housing.
HAPIP bridges this gap, providing secure, durable homes that enhance quality of life.
Fostering Education
The dormitory component of HAPIP ensures that Indigenous students have access to safe, supportive housing, empowering them to succeed academically.
Preserving Culture
By integrating cultural considerations into housing designs, HAPIP ensures that tradition remains a cornerstone of modern living.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a deadline for application submissions?
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. However, specific projects may have deadlines. Check with your local NHA office for updates.
- Can non-Indigenous individuals apply for HAPIP?
No, HAPIP is exclusively for recognized members of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
- Are there any costs involved in applying for HAPIP?
The program is free for eligible beneficiaries. However, costs related to preparing required documents may apply.
- What happens if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, the NHA provides feedback and guidance on addressing issues or reapplying.
- Can I choose the design of my house?
Housing designs are pre-approved and culturally aligned with each community. Input from tribal leaders is considered during planning.
- How long does it take to process an application?
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the project and completeness of submitted documents. Contact your NHA office for estimates.
- Is the program available nationwide?
Yes, HAPIP is implemented across regions, with projects tailored to the needs of specific Indigenous communities.
Sustaining the Future: HAPIP’s Long-Term Vision
HAPIP isn’t just about building homes; it’s about building futures.
The program’s emphasis on sustainability, collaboration, and cultural respect ensures lasting benefits for Indigenous communities.
As more projects are rolled out, HAPIP aims to empower IPs to thrive while preserving their heritage.
How You Can Support HAPIP
Even if you’re not a direct beneficiary, you can support HAPIP by:
- Sharing information about the program within your network.
- Volunteering with local initiatives.
- Advocating for policies that support Indigenous housing rights.
Every effort helps create a brighter future for Indigenous communities.
Recent Updates
Housing Assistance for Dibabawon Tribe
The National Housing Authority (NHA) distributed 75 housing units at Balai Kabauyan Tu Dibabawon, Sitio Lunao Sto. Niño, New Corella, Davao del Norte.
Representing NHA General Manager Joeben Tai, NHA Region XI Manager Engr. Clemente A. Dayot led the distribution to the beneficiary families of the Dibabawon Tribe.
This project is part of the agency’s Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (HAPIP), which aims to provide decent homes for our indigenous brothers and sisters.
The National Housing Authority (NHA) recently awarded new homes to 100 families from the Higaonon Tribe.
The inauguration and turnover ceremony took place at the Magsaysay IP Housing Project in Brgy. Tama, Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental.
Region X Officer-in-Charge Engr. Homer T. Cezar, representing NHA General Manager Joeben A. Tai, led the event alongside Magsaysay Mayor Charlie B. Buhisan and Higaonon Tribe Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Melanie Polinar.
The project, part of the Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (HAPIP), was developed in collaboration with the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the local government unit (LGU).
The Sangguniang Barangay of Tama, Magsaysay, will provide livelihood assistance and other social services to the new community under the Barangay Environment Program.
Under the directive of National Housing Authority (NHA) GM Joeben Tai, the agency distributed housing units to 100 families from the Subanen Tribe.
The distribution took place at the Lison Valley Tribal Village in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.
This village is part of the Housing Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (HAPIP), which aims to provide decent homes for our indigenous brothers and sisters.
Video: Kalamansig Manobo Village IP Project
The Kalamansig Manobo Village Project in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, is one of the housing projects of the NHA intended for the Indigenous Peoples (IP).
This project will house 100 IP families belonging to the Manobo-Dulangan tribe.
The families have been tagged as owners of structures living along danger areas such as river banks.
This project aims to provide safe and culturally sensitive housing solutions for these families.
The NHA collaborates with local government units and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to make this project a reality.
Conclusion
HAPIP is more than just a housing program.
It’s a testament to what’s possible when cultural respect and practical support come together.
If you’re part of an Indigenous community and seeking a home that honors your traditions, HAPIP could be your answer.
Take the first step today by exploring the program and submitting your application.
Together, we can build homes that nurture tradition and inspire futures.