Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Benitez (Neg. Occ., 3rd District) has just been named chairman of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development.
“As chairperson of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development, we will work towards new policies and programs that will address the country’s housing crisis – make housing affordable to low-income families, make our cities and communities livable,” Benitez said tonight, December 14.
He said they will take on the challenge to bring to the fore the silent struggle of the homeless and the poor who live in the streets, under bridges, in makeshift shanties along railways or rivers.
Benitez also thanked House Speaker Lord Alan Velasco for his trust and confidence in giving him the new responsibility.
“I thank my predecessor Cong. Strike Revilla, now Deputy Speaker, for actively engaging me early on in the work of the Committee. Chairman Strike, you’re a hard act to follow. We will continue the work that you have started this 18th Congress,” he added.
“Housing was my brother’s (Alfredo Abelardo Benitez) committee in Congress and was my father’s (Jose Conrado “Jolly” Benitez) portfolio as deputy minister of Human Settlements,” he added.*