PHILIPPINES — The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has issued a firm directive to all regional offices and its central bureau. Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling ordered the resolution of all pending homebuyer and homeowners' association complaints within 30 days. The move aims to protect the welfare of Filipino families who have invested their life savings into homes.
A Mandate for Faster, Fairer Service
Secretary Aliling emphasized that complaints should not linger, especially from homebuyers who worked tirelessly to acquire their properties. He stressed that these concerns must be addressed promptly, fairly, and in accordance with the law. The directive reflects a commitment to responsive governance.
The department's regulatory role extends beyond approvals to safeguarding consumer rights. The 30-day deadline pushes offices to act with urgency. This builds trust between the government and the public.
Clearing a Legacy of Backlogs
The directive builds on the DHSUD's Zero Backlog Program, a key part of Secretary Aliling's eight-point reform agenda. Upon assuming office, the department inherited over 3,000 actionable regulatory items dating back to 2021. These backlogs were cleared within two months.
An internal audit in March uncovered pending applications at the regional level. Management deployed key officials to resolve these issues directly. Since June, all regional offices have certified zero overdue regulatory applications, complying with the 15-day action rule.
Focus on Key Regions
The DHSUD has identified three priority regions for the current directive. These are RO4A or Calabarzon, the National Capital Region, and RO3 or Central Luzon. These areas handle the bulk of homebuyer and HOA cases.
Regional directors were ordered to submit a comprehensive inventory of pending complaints. They must also provide reasons why these issues remain unresolved. This data will guide targeted interventions and ensure accountability.
A Commitment to Fair Resolution
Secretary Aliling's directive underscores the importance of balancing stakeholder interests. The government recognizes that homebuyers often face significant financial and emotional stress when disputes arise. The 30-day resolution period provides a clear timeline for closure.
This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive for faster and cleaner public service. The DHSUD is committed to delivering on this mandate. Homeowners can expect more efficient handling of their concerns moving forward.
Building a More Responsive Regulator
The move signals a broader shift toward a more responsive and citizen-centered DHSUD. By prioritizing the resolution of complaints, the department strengthens its role as a protector of the real estate market. This creates a more stable environment for both developers and buyers.
For the public, the message is clear: the government is listening and acting. The 30-day directive transforms concern into action. It reinforces the principle that homeownership should be a source of security, not prolonged anxiety.
