The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has strengthened its homebuyer protection drive by accelerating the resolution of complaints through large-scale conciliation activities conducted across its regional offices nationwide.
In a memorandum, DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling instructed all Regional Offices (ROs) to prioritize and fast-track conciliation proceedings involving homebuyers and developers, underscoring the importance of resolving disputes at the earliest possible stage.
“Prioritize conciliation efforts in all applicable cases to encourage amicable settlement between the parties at the earliest possible stage,” Secretary Aliling told DHSUD regional directors.
He further directed regional directors to ensure that hearings are scheduled without delay and that conciliation efforts are fully exhausted before any enforcement action is taken.
“All ROs are further directed to closely monitor the status of conciliation cases and submit regular reports,” Secretary Aliling said.
Mass conciliation sessions rolled out in key regions
As part of this initiative, DHSUD Regional Office 4A led a two-day mass conciliation activity at the Rizal Coliseum in Calamba City, Laguna. The event brought together hundreds of homebuyers and developers from across the CALABARZON region to resolve pending cases through direct dialogue.
A total of 241 cases were scheduled for hearing and conciliation, giving both parties the opportunity to reach amicable settlements and address longstanding concerns in a structured and collaborative setting. Similar initiatives are also being conducted across other regional offices.
The program forms part of the Department’s Zero Backlog Program, which aims to deliver faster, more accessible, and cost-efficient dispute resolution services while reinforcing consumer protection within the housing sector.
Strengthening consumer protection in housing
According to DHSUD Secretary Aliling, the initiative is intended to reduce the burden on homebuyers and provide quicker resolution to housing-related concerns.
“As a regulatory agency, DHSUD is balancing the welfare and protection of all our stakeholders, particularly homebuyers. Hangad namin na lahat ay mapaglingkuran ng tama, malinis at mabilis,” Secretary Aliling said.
Among the cases being addressed are disputes involving the sale of properties without Licenses to Sell, delays in project turnover, and refund-related concerns.
Since assuming office, Secretary Aliling has directed senior DHSUD officials to address existing backlogs and prioritize practical, timely outcomes for complaints handled at the regional level, alongside the continued rollout of the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.
“We are not just focusing on Expanded 4PH. Part of our mandate is to ensure the welfare of homeowners and homebuyers nationwide. We want to bring our services closer to the people, as directed also by President Marcos Jr.,” Secretary Aliling said.
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