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DHSUD: PRRD’s KSAs halt loan DHSUD celebrates gift of love P3 payments P11 1st anniversary P26 4 FEATURE 5 Editor’s Note JUNE 2020 Today, we introduce to you The Shelter, the Department of Human Settle- ments and Urban Development’s (DHSUD) new and official publication, or newsletter, if you will. The DHSUD had wanted a platform to showcase its policies, plans, Contents programs, activities, and most of all, its accomplishments. But more than tooting our own horn, it shall bear testament and witness to the dedication FEATURE 3 DHSUD: PRRD’s gift of love of all the men and women who undertook the pledge of public service in the DHSUD: PRRD’s gift of love housing and community building sector. 4 SECRETARY’S CORNER It begins with the Secretary’s corner, followed by Profiles of DHSUD’s current leaders. In Features, you’ll find curated stories from DHSUD’s Central BY MARIAE FRANCESCA R. ACOSTA 5 PROFILES Office, complemented by stories from DHSUD’s Regional Offices inFrom the Regions. In this issue, we have released a COVID-19 Special culminating with MONEY MATTERS On February 14, 2019, President Rodrigo Roa a Highlight on the ‘New Normal.’ Money matters would be stories from the 6 - 7 Pag-IBIG, SHFC post milestones home financing arm of DHSUD, andLegal matters would house the adjudica- Duterte signed into law Republic Act 11201 tion stories. Meanwhile, Community building, as the name suggests, contains COVID-19 SPECIAL that created the Department of Human updates on housing, township and other development projects. Media Corner 8 - 9 Work-from-Home, safety measures enforced amid lockdown will feature DHSUD stories that have been published in mainstream media. 10 Belt-tightening measures to raise fund vs COVID Settlements and Urban Development Finally, some positive vibes have earned their space in Home & Letters. DHSUD-7 promotes bayanihan amid ECQ (DHSUD) as a gesture of love to every Filipino May you, dear readers, feel our determination to uphold our pledge 11 Loan payments halted ₱10-B stimulus package for partner-developers with the turn of every page, and then find inspiration and hope, especially, who dreamed of owning a home someday. 12 - 13 NHMFC migrates services online in these challenging times. With our deep commitment to service, we offer you, The Shelter. “It would be our main A 2016 study revealed that HIGHLIGHT engine in making decent more than 1.2 million infor- 14 - 19 The ‘New Normal’ Coping with change is the way to move forward and affordable homes for our mal-settler families in the underprivileged and home- country were either homeless, Editorial Board FROM THE REGIONS less citizens,” President Dute- living in shabby conditions Chairman of the Board 20-21 DHSUD staff take ‘virtual’ oath rte said of the DHSUD during or sharing tiny spaces with President Rodrigo Duterte signs Republic Act 11201, which paved the way for the Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario Region 8 opens new office his 2019 midterm report to other families. This number establishment of the DHSUD. NCR braces for resumption of real estate activities Photo courtesy of PTV News Members the nation. is just a fifth of the housing Taal rehab on full-throttle Assistant Secretary Melissa A. Aradanas OIC-Director Atty. Angelito F. Aguila 22-23 As the central manager gap in the Philippines, which Corporation, Home Develop- dication Commission, which Assistant Secretary Leira S. Buan OIC-Director Atty Siegfrid D. Lapasaran Accounting of public lands ongoing in Visayas and primary national govern- was pegged at 6.57 million for ment Mutual Fund and Social was created and attached to Commissioner Marylin M. Pintor OIC-Director Atty. Ma. Luisa G. Pangan Work as usual for DHSUD offices in Northern Luzon ment entity in all aspects of five years between 2017 and Housing Finance Corpora- DHSUD for policy, planning Chief-of-Staff Zyril D. Carlos OIC-Director Atty. Ma. Lorina J. Rigor Head Executive Asst. Leouel A. Santos OIC-Director Jeanette E. Cruz housing, human settlements, 2022. tion. and program coordination. LEGAL MATTERS Director Alvin T. Claridades OIC-Director Nora L. Diaz and urban development, the The DHSUD merged and President Duterte appoin- The new law also estab- Director Stefan Ema Mae P. Corregidor OIC-Director Rowena P. Dineros 24 The HSAC chronicles Director Mylene A. Rivera OIC-Director Lourdes N. Ureta newly created department absorbed the functions of the ted former HUDCC Chairman lished the Environmental, would be in a perfect posi- two former housing agencies Eduardo Del Rosario as the Land Use and Urban Plan- COMMUNITY BUILDING Editorial Staff 25 Housing assistance offered to BP2 beneficiaries tion to address the country’s — the Housing and Urban first Secretary of the DHSUD. ning and Development, Managing Editor housing need and scale-up Development Coordinat- As the head of the DHSUD, Housing and Real Estate Mario J. Mallari FEATURE the administration’s commit- ing Council (HUDCC) and Secretary Del Rosario would Development Regulation, 26 DHSUD marks first anniversary ment in providing decent and the Housing and Land Use take the helm in steering and Homeowners Associa- Editor/Art Director Mariae Francesca R. Acosta affordable homes to every Regulatory Board (HLURB) the administration’s hous- tions and Community Devel- 27 MEDIA CORNER Filipino family. — which include planning, ing direction, with focus on opment bureaus under the Associate Editor Christian V. Cabajar President Rodrigo Duterte is joined by policy-making, regulatory, policy and program develop- DHSUD. 27 HOME & LETTERS DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario in a program coordination, and ment as chair of the National In creating the DHSUD, Creative Director time capsule laying ceremony for a housing Glory M. Duller project in Talisay, Negros Occidental. performance monitoring of Human Settlements Board, President Duterte wished to COMMUNITY BUILDING all housing and community with the Socioeconomic Plan- realize the dream of 81% of Contributors 28 Despite COVID-19 Marawi rehab on target development concerns. ning Secretary, Budget Secre- Filipino families to have their Reynaldo M. De Leon Also, the DHSUD was tary, Public Works Secretary, own homes. Eva Maria P. Marfil Camille Lelina tasked to exercise admin- Finance Secretary, Interior “I am resolute in my Roma Mae Quijano istrative supervision and Local Government Secre- commitment to ensure that Ed Alaine Aguelo About the cover Nini Go Sanchez over the country’s tary and all the heads of KSAs our people are provided with The cover features a composite image Key Shelter Agen- as members. decent and affordable hous- of a worker with a “safety first” sticker cies (KSAs) which Meanwhile, adjudica- ing,” he said. on his helmet. Health and safety get first are the National tion in the housing sector, “Having decent and afford- The Official Publication of The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development priority, in particular, for the housing Housing Author- a key function of the former able shelter is one of the key sector as it rises from lockdown and ity, National Home HLURB, was transferred to aspects of a comfortable life,” DHSUD Building, Kalayaan Avenue corner Mayaman Street, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1101 enters into a new phase of doing things Mortgage Finance the Human Settlements Adju- President Duterte added. coined as the “new normal.” www.dhsud.gov.ph [email protected] Photo courtesy of PIA @DHSUDgovph 6 7 JUNE 2020 JUNE 2020

Profiles

EDUARDO D. DEL ROSARIO SECRETARY The hardworking Secretary Del Rosario is DHSUD’s first ever head after being appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte in January. Previously, he had occupied key positions in the government and is no stranger to the housing industry. Served as the Chairperson of the defunct Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) before he was tasked by the President on the housing portfolio. It was under his helm of the HUDCC when the administration’s national shelter program for Filipino communities known as the BALAI (Building Adequate, Livable, Affordable and Inclusive) was launched and initiated. The DHSUD, under his leadership, has crafted the 10-point agenda that addresses the agency’s core functions of production, finance and regulation of the housing sector. “Housing is a need as well as a right, and it is our responsibility to assist the 81% of Filipinos who wish to have a house of their own,” he says.

Secretary’s Corner

elcome to The Shelter’s maiden ments and Urban Development has suspended issue; a beginning fraught with housing and short-term loan payments in order to trials and challenges, yet already ease the burden on our 5.5 million member-benefi- MELISSA AVANCEÑA ARADANAS LEIRA S. BUAN LEOUEL A. SANTOS baptized by fire — the COVID-19, ciaries — the people who we care to serve first and ASSISTANT SECRETARY ASSISTANT SECRETARY HEAD EXECUTIVE ASST. TO THE SECRETARY the deadly virus that has swept foremost. Asec Mel, as known by colleagues, oversees As an Assistant Secretary, HEA, as popularly called in the department, takes charge Wthe world and has turned our lives upside-down. To further complement this, we immediately the DHSUD’s Environmental, Land Use and Ate Lei, as fondly called of the operations and the day-to-day activities of the Office It has exposed vulnerabilities, both in our bodies consulted our stakeholders and partners to craft ways Urban Planning Development Bureau, Housing by colleagues, oversees of the Secretary. As such, he makes things happen and the and Real Estate Development Regulation all DHSUD Regional job looks easy for the Secretary. and in the current global system. Schools, shops, on how best we can assist to revitalize the housing Bureau and Homeowners Association and Offices particularly in the He had worked in the Executive Department for years services and even governments around the world were industry, thereby pump-prime our economy. Community Development Bureau. implementation of DHSUD’s both while in the active military service and after retirement shuttered. It is in our homes that we have found our In this issue, you will find the results of our Part of her 24-year experience as a civil policies, plans, programs, including agencies like the Department of National protection, our sanctuary. combined efforts to confront and mitigate the chal- servant was having served as the Deputy projects, rules and Defense, Office of the National Security Adviser, Office of Secretary General of the former Housing and regulations, among others. the Presidential Adviser for Indigenous People’s Concerns, It is on this note that we begin this newsletter. The lenges of the “New Normal.” Urban Development Coordinating Council She also monitors the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and Office Shelter, as its namesake, echoes the Department’s aim It will take everyone’s sincere efforts and contribu- (HUDCC). She was also a member of the seven- conduct of conciliation of the President which tapped his leadership skills and to serve as a sanctuary in these trying times, the agen- tions to rebuild our nation. In this fragile ecosystem, man Bangon Marawi Selection Committee of proceedings on issues immense knowledge and experience in policy and strategy the Task Force Bangon Marawi. and disputes relating to development, operations and campaign management, and cy’s conduit with its stakeholders and its bridge with cooperation is vital to confront this crisis. This will Prior to her stint at HUDCC, Asec Mel was the implementation of education and training development. the Filipino people. not break us, but by being together, we can only come previously appointed by President Rodrigo the agency’s mandates, A retired Army colonel and a member of the PMA Class In a strong show of commitment to cushion the out stronger. Duterte as Commissioner of the Presidential including the regulation of of 1986, HEA Santos earned his Master of Development adverse effects caused by the Enhanced Commu- Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP). real estate development Administration degree from the Australian National University in Assistant Secretary Aradanas is a licensed and homeowner Canberra, Australia in 2001 and an Executive Course at the Asia nity Quarantine, the Department of Human Settle- All the best! Environmental Planner and a Juris Doctor graduate. associations. Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2005.

SECRETARY EDUARDO D. DEL ROSARIO Financial Highlights Membership Savings Membership Savings STL AVAILMENT Housing Loan No. of Units 51.67B GROSS & NET INCOME (2012 to 2019) 48.40B (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (Jan. - Apr. 2020) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) 43.32B 7% FIRST TIME EVER HIGHEST EVER 4.94B LOAN AMOUNT 38.27B 12% TO REACH THE P50B MARK! NO. OF LOANS APPROVED 95,276 34.19B 4.92B 13% 29.44B 30.15B 34.37B 50.4B 53.83B 12% 33.17B 0.4% 2.59M 82,099 25.25B25.25B 30.27B 41B 2.86B 50.77 2.26M 13% 25.01B 10% 4% 2% 20.54B 21% 116% 2% 17% 123% 42% 106% 115% ACCOMPLISHMENT GROSS INCOME 22% ACCOMPLISHMENT 16.24B ACCOMPLISHMENT ACCOMPLISHMENT 13.25B 14.45B NET INCOME 26% 0.92B 12% 11% 9% 68%

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL

HOUSING LOANS BY PACKAGES (2019)

8 9 MONEY MATTERS JUNE 2020 LOAN VALUE: 86.74B

OPEN MARKET MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Pag-IBIG Fund Snapshot 2.49B (3%) 3.29B (4%)

Financial Highlights Membership Savings Membership Savings STL AVAILMENT Housing Loan No. of Units 2019 Active Members SOCIALIZED HOUSING 51.67B GROSS & NET INCOME (2012 to 2019) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (Jan. - Apr. 2020) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) 48.40B 10.64B (12%) 43.32B 7% FIRST TIME EVER 14.69 Million HIGHEST EVER! HIGHEST EVER 4.94B LOAN AMOUNT 38.27B 12% TO REACH THE P50B MARK! NO. OF LOANS APPROVED 95,276 34.19B 4.92B 13% 29.44B 30.15B 34.37B 50.4B 53.83B 12% 33.17B 0.4% 2019 Total Assets P34.37B2.59M 82,099 25.25B25.25B 30.27B 41B 2019 Net Income Pag-IBIG, SHFC post milestones13% 2.86B 50.77 2.26M 25.01B 10% 4% LOW-COST HOUSING 2% 21% P603.39B 20.54B 116% 2% 17% 123% GROSS INCOME 42% 106% 115% ACCOMPLISHMENT 16.24B 22% ACCOMPLISHMENT 14.45B ACCOMPLISHMENT ACCOMPLISHMENT NET INCOME 13.25B 70.33B (81%) BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR at the Philippine Inter- social benefits to the public. the Virtual Pag-IBIG, 26% given since the CMP was rolled 0.92B P31.07B 12% 2019 Membership Savings 2019 Dividends national Convention Pag-IBIG also collected an online portal 11% 9% out in 1988. 68% JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL P50.38B 2019 Dividend2019 TARGET Rates2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL he Key Shelter Agencies Center on Febru- more than ₱12.01 ‑billion allowing members Likewise, the SHFC 6.73% (KSAs) play a pivotal role in ary 7, DHSUD in members’ savings in to have access recorded the highest 137 20 REGULAR SAVINGS (Pag-IBIG) Branches 2019 Posts the Department of Human Secretary and 2019. This was thrice on the agency’s takeout ever in 2019 by Nationwide Worldwide MP2 7.23% Settlements and Urban HDMF Board of the amount collected in services 24/7. providing assistance to NO. OF UNITS: 95,276 Development’s (DHSUD) Trustee Chair- 2018, which is around Through the 32,797 partner-home- Tsuccess in addressing the housing man Eduardo ₱4.47 ‑billion. online portal, owners through about HOUSING LOANS BY PACKAGES (2019) SOCIALIZED HOUSING OPEN MARKET needs of the Filipino people. Del Rosario The major increase members can ₱2.48 ‑billion worth of 27,145 (28%) 605 (1%) Two KSAs under DHSUD, the announced the was attributed to a signif- enjoy Pag-IBIG’s housing loans, marking LOAN VALUE: 86.74B MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Home Mutual Development HDMF’s record icant rise in HDMF’s Modi- services, such as a 50% increase in its assis- 1,067 (1%) OPEN MARKET MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Fund (HDMF or Pag-IBIG) and earnings, housing fied Pag-IBIG2 or MP2 savings acquiring a Member- tancePag-IBIG compared Fund toSnapshot 2018 .The 2.49B (3%) 3.29B (4%) LOW-COST HOUSING the Social Housing Finance loan releases and collections. ship number, enroll- figure2019 Active showed Members a three-fold SOCIALIZED HOUSING 14.69 Million 10.64B (12%) Corp (SHFC), which moved cash releases to its PAG-IBIG FUND Chief Executive For housing, Pag-IBIG ing for an MP2 Savings SHFC President rise compared toHIGHEST 2017. EVER! 66,459 (70%) Officer Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti Atty. Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling 2019 Total Assets P34.37B in synergy with the members, partners Fund released more than account and paying TheP603.39B SHFC reported2019 Net Income that LOW-COST HOUSING P31.07B 70.33B (81%) department in provid- and stakeholders. ₱86.7 ‑billion to assist loans. its2019 2019 Membership collections Savings 2019 Dividends soared ing high-quality public At the event, Secretary Del Rosario its almost one hundred thousand Meanwhile, the SHFC is also work- by 8% to 1.11 P50.38B‑billion as it2019 posted Dividend Rates a ₱ 6.73% 137 20 REGULAR SAVINGS (Pag-IBIG) service, achieved reported that more than 14.6 million members in financing their homes. ing to help Filipinos, especially the 2019 collectionBranches 2019 efficiencyPosts rating of Nationwide Worldwide MP2 7.23% breakthroughs this active Pag-IBIG members were able to For cash loans, the agency doled out underprivileged, realize their dream 72.03%, way above the 69.05% effort NO. OF UNITS: 95,276

year. save around ₱50.3 ‑billion in 2019 — the ₱53.83 ‑billion to over 2.5 million of owning a house of their own. in 2018. It attributed the positive SOCIALIZED HOUSING OPEN MARKET th 27,145 (28%) 605 (1%) At the HDMF highest on record — with the amount members. During SHFC’s 16 Anniver- trend to the agency’s decentralized MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Chairman’s soaring by 25% compared to 2018. Likewise, the HDMF posted a major sary celebration at the Valero Grand approach that paved the way for the 1,067 (1%)

Report held “We are happy to report that achievement in relation to its assets, Suites in Makati City on January 24, opening of more branches across the LOW-COST HOUSING Pag-IBIG has again achieved an excel- which amounted to ₱603.39 ‑billion at the agency highlighted some of its country and its close coordination 66,459 (70%) lent year in 2019. We achieved record- the end of 2019. It also registered a net key achievements and launched new with the government. highs in our Key Result Areas while income of ₱34.37 ‑billion, which is the schemes meant to assist more low-in- At the start of the year, the SHFC delivering responsive services to our highest on record. come earners acquire their own reduced socialized interest rates for Financialmembers. Highlights By so doing, we continue Pag-IBIGMembership Fund Chief Savings Executive Membershiphomes. Savings full packageSTL AVAILMENT loans under the CMP, Housing Loan No. of Units to perform our mandate of51.67B effec- Officer Acmad Rizaldy Moti said the In its “Ulat sa Pamayanan,” the and with longer repayment. GROSS & NET INCOME (2012 to 2019) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (Jan. - Apr. 2020) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) tively managing the Filipino48.40B workers’ annual Chairman’s Report serves as SHFC, the lead government agency “This is our gift to our low-income 43.32B 7% FIRST TIME EVER HIGHEST EVERsavings, while providing affordable a platform for the agency to update mandated4.94B to undertake socialized clientsLOAN AMOUNT on the occasion of our anni- 38.27B 12% TO REACH THE P50B MARK! NO. OF LOANS APPROVED 95,276 34.19B 4.92B and accessible house13% financing members and stakeholders on its housing for low-income earners, versary,” said SHFC President Atty. 29.44B 30.15B 34.37B 50.4B 53.83B 12% 33.17B 0.4% 2.59M 82,099 25.25B25.25B programs for our members,”30.27B Secretary significant 41Beffort and contributions in reported that the agency’s flagship Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling. 2.86B 50.77 2.26M 13% 25.01B 10% 4% Del Rosario2% said. improving public welfare on a yearly scheme, the Community Mortgage “Thus, we are hoping that part- 20.54B 21% 116% 2% 17% 123% 42% 106% 115% ACCOMPLISHMENT GROSS INCOME He added that22% Pag-IBIG’s mile- basis. ACCOMPLISHMENT Program (CMP), has benefited more ner-homeowners will immediately 16.24B ACCOMPLISHMENT ACCOMPLISHMENT 13.25B 14.45B NET INCOME stone is in26% line with the govern- Two months before the Chair- than 350,000 families0.92B through more file their applications before the 12% 11% 9%ment’s initiatives in providing man’s Report, the HDMF rolled out than ₱16 ‑billion in68% loan assistance program ends in 2021.” he added. 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL

Financial Highlights Membership Savings Membership Savings STL AVAILMENT Housing Loan No. of Units 51.67B GROSS & NET INCOME (2012 to 2019) 48.40B (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (Jan. - Apr. 2020) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) (2019 ACTUAL VS. TARGET) 43.32B 7% FIRST TIME EVER HIGHEST EVER 4.94B LOAN AMOUNT 38.27B 12% TO REACH THE P50B MARK! NO. OF LOANS APPROVED 95,276 34.19B 4.92B 13% 29.44B 30.15B 34.37B 50.4B 53.83B 12% 33.17B 0.4% 2.59M 82,099 25.25B25.25B 30.27B 41B 2.86B 50.77 2.26M 13% 25.01B 10% 4% 2% 20.54B 21% 116% 2% 17% HOUSING123% LOANS BY PACKAGES (2019) 42% 106% 115% ACCOMPLISHMENT GROSS INCOME 22% ACCOMPLISHMENT 16.24B ACCOMPLISHMENT ACCOMPLISHMENT 13.25B 14.45B NET INCOME 26% 0.92B 12% 11% 9% 68% LOAN VALUE: 86.74B 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL JAN. FEB. MAR. APR. 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL 2019 TARGET 2019 ACTUAL

OPEN MARKET MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Pag-IBIG Fund Snapshot 2.49B (3%) 3.29B (4%)

2019 Active Members SOCIALIZED HOUSING 14.69 Million HIGHEST EVER! 10.64B (12%)

2019 Total Assets P34.37B P603.39B 2019 Net Income LOW-COST HOUSING P31.07B 70.33B (81%) 2019 Membership Savings 2019 Dividends HOUSING LOANS BY PACKAGES (2019) P50.38B 2019 Dividend Rates 6.73% 137 20 REGULAR SAVINGS (Pag-IBIG) Branches 2019 Posts Nationwide Worldwide MP2 7.23% LOAN VALUE: 86.74B NO. OF UNITS: 95,276

SOCIALIZED HOUSING OPEN MARKET OPEN MARKET MEDIUM-COST HOUSING Pag-IBIG Fund Snapshot27,145 (28%) 605 (1%) 3.29B (4%) MEDIUM-COST HOUSING 2.49B (3%) 1,067 (1%) 2019 Active Members SOCIALIZED HOUSING 14.69 Million 10.64B (12%) HIGHEST EVER! LOW-COST HOUSING 2019 Total Assets P34.37B 66,459 (70%) P603.39B 2019 Net Income LOW-COST HOUSING P31.07B 70.33B (81%) 2019 Membership Savings 2019 Dividends

P50.38B 2019 Dividend Rates 6.73% 137 20 REGULAR SAVINGS (Pag-IBIG) Branches 2019 Posts Nationwide Worldwide MP2 7.23% NO. OF UNITS: 95,276

SOCIALIZED HOUSING OPEN MARKET 27,145 (28%) 605 (1%) MEDIUM-COST HOUSING 1,067 (1%)

LOW-COST HOUSING 66,459 (70%) 10 11 COVID-19 SPECIAL JUNE 2020 Work-from-home,

Alcohol and sanitizers are safety measures available at every entrance around DHSUD Central Office. enforced amid lockdown BY MARIAE FRANCESCA R. ACOSTA

The health and safety of its employees and clients alike is paramount to the Department of Human Settlements and Housing Development (DHSUD). To ensure this, the department has enforced a leaner working staff, social distancing and disinfection measures amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The DHSUD issued an advi- to control the spread of sory on the “Formation of Skel- the virus,” OIC-Director etal Workforce and Stringent Cruz added. Social Distancing Measures According to the advisory, in view of the State of Public personnel who perform critical Health Emergency,” which work for the department and ordered all officials, employ- who must physically be pres- ees, including job orders and ent in the office need to exer- contract of service workers cise strict compliance to social starting March 16 to adopt a distancing measures and prac- work-from-home scheme that tice proper personal hygiene. refused of entry and would ensure the continuity of All employees are urged advised to seek a health clear- its services while Metro Manila, to always clean and disinfect ance. Under the ECQ and the entire island of Luzon and their work spaces. These measures have been Modified ECQ, government select LGUs are placed under In addition, common areas implemented at the DHSUD’s offices would only be allowed

Enhanced Community Quar- and frequently used spaces, for headquarters, Regional Offices to maintain a skeletal work- A guard checks the temperature of antine (ECQ). example, restrooms, elevators, including the Key Shelter force on-site. all who enter DHSUD Central Office. “Work in all offices of the including buttons, door knobs Agencies, and it will remain in Alternative work arrange- Anyone found to have a temperature of above 37.6 degrees Celsius will not be Empty hallways are a regular department shall be adjusted and handles undergoes regular effect until it is revoked. ments, such as implementation allowed inside. feature at the DHSUD Central Office accordingly while maintain- in Quezon City after Metro Manila disinfection and sanitation. The Inter-Agency Task Force of a four-day work week can be ing unimpeded delivery of has been placed under community Alcohol and sanitizers on the Management of Emerg- applied once an area transi- lockdown as seen in this photo taken service to the public during on May 18. are readily available in every ing and Infectious Diseases has tions into General Community this period,” DHSUD Offi- entrance. And upon entry, all initially imposed a month-long Quarantine (GCQ). cer-in-Charge (OIC) Director A DHSUD staff adds markings on employees, clients and guests ECQ to areas that have a high The ECQ in Metro Manila, for Administrative Service the elevator floor to ensure social were encouraged to sanitize number of COVID-19 cases, in where DHSUD’s Central Office Jeanette E. Cruz said. distancing is strictly observed. their hands. particular, Metro Manila. is located, had been extended “All officials and staff are Security personnel shall Under the ECQ, all persons up to May 16, and after which further advised to continue to check the temperature of every- including those in government transitioned to the Modified All photos were taken by observe the safety measures Christian V. Cabajar. one before being allowed to who do not do frontline works ECQ until May 31. Starting as promulgated by the Depart- enter the building. Those who are required to remain at home June 1, Metro Manila and other ment of Health and to cooper- have temperatures that are and in order to slow the spread of high risk areas transitioned to ate in the government’s efforts above 37.6 degrees Celsius are the virus. GCQ. 12 13 COVID-19 SPECIAL JUNE 2020 ₱10-B stimulus package Loan payments halted for partner-developers Belt-tightening measures BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR Developers are the backbone of the housing sector. Of course, they build the future homes of millions of To do its share of easing the burden efforts to assist our kababayans Filipino families. But more importantly, especially in on millions of Filipinos who have (countrymen) amid the COVID-19 to raise fund vs COVID this time of crisis, developers will create the jobs, and temporarily lost their livelihood due crisis,” Secretary Del Rosario said. sustain the business of 80 or more other related indus- to the community lockdown enforced Due to the pandemic, President tries and kickstart the stagnated Philippine economy to curb the spread of COVID-19, the Rodrigo Duterte placed the entire he Department of its fight against COVID‑19. Through measures should not adversely affect that shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. DHSUD has ordered a moratorium country under a State of National Human Settlements these measures, we will be able to the delivery of vital DHSUD targets. To support this crucial unit, DHSUD Secretary on payments of loan amortizations. Health Emergency and called on and Urban Devel- provide the much-needed funds in “We will undertake these austerity Eduardo Del Rosario has approved an additional DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del both public and private institutions opment (DHSUD) anticipation for the long-term effects measures without compromising the ₱8‑billion stimulus package that was proposed by the Rosario directed the Home Devel- to contribute in easing the difficul- adopted belt-tight- of the pandemic,” Secretary Del Rosa- delivery of our mandate,” the DHSUD Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund opment Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG ties of citizens affected by the health Tening measures in order to rio said. chief pointed out. to help partner-developers cope up with the adverse Fund, the National Home Mort- scare by providing extensions on help raise funds for the “The government would need every- In addition, the Social Housing effect of the COVID-19. gage Finance Corporation, the mortgages and bills payments. national government one’s support to sustain its efforts Financial Corporation, one of the Key Pag -IBIG recommended to augment the ₱2‑billion Social Housing Finance Corpora- Over five million KSA members in its fight against the to assist our countrymen cope with Shelter Agencies (KSAs) under the House Construction Financing Line tion and the National Hous- with current loans would bene- coronavirus disease the adverse effects of the commu- DHSUD, has also approved the discon- (HCFL) with an additional ₱8‑billion ing Authority, the Key Shelter fit from the measure, and it would 2019 (COVID-19) nity quarantine and finally defeat the tinuance of ₱21,119,155,000 worth of for a total of ₱10‑billion to serve as Agencies (KSAs) under the result in the non-collection of around pandemic. COVID ‑19,” he added. projects and programs. an “economic stimulus package” This ₱10‑billion department, to issue guide- ₱31.2 ‑billion during the quarantine The department gave Among the non-essential activities Among those cut were activities, for accredited developers that need economic stimulus lines on suspending housing period. up about ₱261 ‑million, that would have to be discontinued trainings, assemblies of the Customer bridge financing. plan for the housing loan amortizations for three “We are allowing them not to or roughly 40% from its include this year’s general assembly, Relations and Complaints Division, “This is DHSUD’s commitment sector will be our months. pay for three months,” Secretary total budget for 2020 to quarterly salo-salo, sports fest, cultural Human Resources Development Divi- of forging stronger ties with our The order came immedi- Del Rosario said, addingNHMFC that the 18,000 be realigned under events, and mid-year and year end sion, Partner Relations Division, Insur- partner-developers and to keep the contribution to the ately after the community measure is in line with the govern- AII P30.5 billion Bayanihan to Heal activities, according to a proposal from ance and Community Enhancement housing sector vibrant amid these efforts of the national quarantine in Metro Manila ment’s initiative in lightening the 5 million P165.5P300 million million as One Act. the DHSUD’s Management Commit- Division and Strategic Communica- difficult times,” Secretary Del Rosa- government to bring and select areas shuttered burden of Filipinos amid theSHFC COVID- 20,000 “We are one tee. The department also plans to cut tions Division. rio said. businesses and temporarily 19 crisis. with the national international and local travel for 2020, The move to cut expenses was in “We firmly believe that the hous- the economy back to put millions of Filipinos out In addition, the DHSUD has also government in and to delay the purchase of motor compliance with the National Budget ing industry is vital in pump priming life. Housing has a of their jobs. ordered a moratorium on payments vehicles to next year. Circular No. 580 issued by the Depart- the economy. By reinvigorating real high multiplier effect. “This is DHSUD’s initia- to in-house financing plans or credit Secretary Del Rosario, however, ment of Budget and Management estate activities, we can immedi- tive to support President intermediation by real estate devel- stressed that the belt- urging all departments and agencies ately trigger the construction supply Acmad Rizaldy Moti Rodrigo Duterte’s all-out opers. tightening to adopt austerity measures amid the chain that will benefit millions of Fili- Pag-IBIG Fund CEO “The unpaid amortizations during COVID-19 crisis. pino workers and help the national the moratorium shall be payable government sustain the efforts to within six months thereafter with- defeat COVID-19,” he added. out interests and penalties,” Secre- Under Pag-IBIG’s HCFL, partner-developers can tary Del Rosario said. avail of bridge financing with only 6.125% interest rate Initially, the grace period DHSUD-7 promotes BAYANIHAN amid ECQ per annum which could effectively be 1.5% or 3% if spanned for two months paid in three months or six months, respectively. This beginning with the will allow partner-developers to draw immediately up Enhanced Commu- BY ROMA MAE QUIJANO  to 70% of their project’s total cost. nity Quarantine CEBU CITY ­— The DHSUD Regional Office partnership with the housing developers made “It’s really a bridge financing. The developers       (ECQ) and then 18,000  ­ € 
    expanded to cover 7 (DHSUD-7) spearheaded the donation of the collaboration possible,” said DHSUD-7 Offi- can retain their employees and pay their suppli-  
130 sacks of rice and 300 pieces of canned cer-in-Charge Engr. Francis D. Ordeniza. ers,” Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Acmad the Modified ECQ. goods to the local government of Cebu City He also said that calamities like earthquakes Rizaldy Moti said, apparently noting the adverse    In March, Presi- last May 8, 2020 despite the work-from-home and typhoons, and now the COVID-19, always effects of the enhanced community quarantine    dent Duterte placed (WFH) arrangement that was observed by spur the generous spirit of the Bisayas. (ECQ) caused by the COVID-19 to the real estate    the entire island of the Regional Office (RO) due to the Enhanced Housing developers such as the 8990 Hous- industry. Luzon and, even- Community Quarantine (ECQ) that was imple- ing Dev’t. Corp.; Lindream Inc.; HT Land Inc.; “This will greatly help our developers, espe-    tually, Visayas and mented in Central Visayas. Rockwell Land Corp.; Philsouth Properties & cially the small and medium-sized developers,    Mindanao under The donations came from various housing Dev’t. Corp.; and Phinma Properties were quick Rice donations from Central Visayas developers are with their cash flows and all. This ₱10‑billion lockdown to slow developers in the region that were coordinated to respond to the call for bayanihan. turned over to Cebu City LGU by DHSUD-7. economic stimulus plan for the housing sector will the spread of the by the DHSUD-7 in support to the Bayanihan to OIC Ordeniza emphasized that the donations firms. Donations received from the other sectors be our contribution to the efforts of the national disease. Heal As One Act. were voluntary, and will not affect DHSUD‑7’s will also be distributed to areas and villages that government to bring the economy back to life. “The DHSUD-7’s good relations and strong legal and professional relationship with the were adversely affected by the ECQ. Housing has a high multiplier effect,” he added. 14 15 COVID-19 SPECIAL JUNE 2020

Temporary protection shields, wearing of PPEs, social distancing, and other NHMFC member-borrowers health protocols are strictly observed as work resumes at NHMFC offices. get responsive online services

n light of the current global health crisis, the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC) is committed to ensur- ing the continuity of its service to with the NHMFC’s loan counselors. With the resumption of government IFilipinos and in aiding the government Around 95% of NHMFC’s applica- work, President Bustos said that health in its battle against the coronavirus tion systems are web-based making protocols are observed and necessary disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. processing transactions possible while This new normal will personal protection equipment (PPEs) Taking advantage of technological employees work at home. In addition, are guaranteed to all employees who breakthroughs, the corporation, as a the NHMFC conducts high-level meet- go for a while and we are allowed to report to office. key pillar of the government’s hous- ings via videoconferencing to address want to make sure “Our employee’s health is our fore- ing arm, has implemented necessary corporate issues and concerns as well most priority. We cannot risk their measures to guarantee uninterrupted as virtual general assemblies among its that our key processes health even if we continue to serve the service to its stakeholders. employees. will continue during community,” President Bustos stressed. In support to the Bayanihan to Heal “This new normal will go on for a He further vowed that NHMFC as One Act, a three-month moratorium while, and we want to make sure that this time of national remains steadfast in its commitment to on the payment of monthly amortiza- our key processes will continue in this health emergency. In deliver adequate housing assistance to tion was granted to qualified NHMFC time of national health emergency. the public and that the corporation will housing loan borrowers, subject to In keeping our employees informed keeping our employees stand firm in its efforts to help stimu- extension should the emergency situa- of the corporation’s business conti- informed of the late the capital market during this time tion remain unabated. nuity measures, we were able to give of national health and economic emer- HOMEAI and NHMFC collaborate in donating facemasks Qualified borrowers may apply and alcohol to Makati Medical Center’s frontline health clear directions and allay some of their corporation’s business gency. through the corporation’s moratorium workers. worries and confusions. We were also continuity measures, online facility found on the NHMFC’s able to help them understand our tran- official website. A mandatory grace remitted last year. These came from tization to the Social Security System sit to the new normal operation and, we were able to give period, without incurring penalty or dividends from last year’s net earnings (SSS) to secure availability of funds therefore, adopt to it,” President Bustos clear directions and other charges, was also granted to all and back dividends from prior years. for loan assistance to SSS members reported. borrowers affected by the enhanced Such remittance will aid the govern- affected by the pandemic. Mindful of the needs of the frontline allay some of their community quarantine (ECQ). Alterna- ment in its endeavor to alleviate the The corporation also discontinued workers, the NHMFC management and worries and confusions. tively, borrowers also have the liberty situation on hand. and reduced its internal fund allocation the Home Mortgage Employee’s Asso- to continue amortizing their accounts Furthermore, the NHMFC demon- for donations, anniversary, teambuild- ciation, Inc. (HOMEAI) donated face- We were also able to at the comfort of their homes via strated a robust financial performance ing, stakeholder’s forums, trainings masks and alcohol to health workers of help them understand PayMaya, and other online collection for CY 2019 as it pays in June 2020 its and travels which generated savings the Makati Medical Center. Food packs partners. highest corporate income tax amount- amounting to ₱14 ‑million worth of were also distributed to the NHMFC our transit to the new “We are one with the government in ing to ₱83.43 ‑million, up by 119% from additional fund to support the govern- frontliners who provide security to the normal operation easing the burden pressing our clients. ₱45.38 ‑million in the previous year. ment’s COVID-19 response. office building. The immediate deployment of our It also paid its Percentage Tax levied On top of this, since the implemen- For its staff, the corporation distrib- and so therefore moratorium program along with the from its gross sales or receipts amount- tation of the community quarantine, uted vitamins and emergency go adopt to it. availability of our online application ing to ₱34 ‑million, which is a 160% the corporation established measures bags. Salaries and allowances were facility is one of our responsive actions increase from its 2018 remittance. to ensure business continuity. released in advance to all regular and in providing assistance to our borrow- DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Client’s concerns are addressed contractual employees including util- Dr. Felixberto Bustos ers,” NHMFC President Felixberto Rosario recognized this steady contri- online. Offices are equipped with ity and security personnel who are NHMFC President Bustos said. bution to the national treasury through self-service kiosks where current on a “no work, no pay” salary scheme The NHMFC made an early remit- its annual increase in payment of divi- account borrowers can check their in response to President Rodrigo Roa tance of its highest ever dividends dends and corporate taxes. balance and payment history, and Duterte’s call for an earlier release of amounting to ₱264 ‑million, which The secondary mortgage firm also secure a reference number for payment bonuses and pays to the labor force was a 49% jump from the ₱177 ‑million ensured the timely remittance of amor- of amortization to limit interaction during these challenging times. Photos courtesy of NHMFC 16 HIGHLIGHT JUNE 2020 THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ Coping with change is the way to move forward

BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR The only thing constant is change. BACK‑TO‑WORK CHECKLIST

Most of us had routines: going through our daily the government moved to slightly ease the restrictions ✅ Health check commute to the office, completing assigned task in our in mid-May. workplaces, hanging out with colleagues and friends on a As a result, however, many Filipinos lost their live- Friday night, celebrating church services on a Sunday and lihood. Some were forced to temporarily stop working, ✅ Facemask enjoying pristine beaches on long weekends or holidays. while others went on “survival mode” just to keep them- It may be a hard pill to swallow, but having these selves and their loved ones afloat amid the pandemic. activities may become next to impossible over the next The housing sector — from its ordinary on-site ✅ few months —­­ maybe even years — due to the coronavi- workers up to its bigwigs — was among the hardest-hit Social distance rus disease 2019 (COVID-19). industries by the contagion. Construction works have After the government declared a national health stopped, the delivery of materials were suspended and ✅ emergency and placed the country under an Enhanced the buying and selling of properties have ceased. Sanitizer Community Quarantine (ECQ) back in March, the oper- In fact, the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Asso- ations of many industries and establishments, includ- ciations, Inc. (CREBA), one of the largest associations of ing works in government offices, were brought to a halt. real estate, housing and infrastructure developers in the ✅ Site quarters The National Capital Region (NCR) and several other country, has estimated that it would take years before provinces with a high number of COVID-19 cases were the housing and real estate sector can fully recover from placed under strict quarantine for two months before the slump caused by the lockdown. ✅ Health insurance

Aside from the usual safety gear, wearing face Photos in composite image came from various sources, including masks at work sites is now mandatory. the Social Housing Finance Corporation and a contributor. COVID-19 Timeline (Sources: DoH, PCOO, WHO) December 2019 January 2020 February 2020 March 2020

31 DEC 2019 7 JAN 2020 13 JAN 2020 23 JAN 2020 28 JAN 2020 30 JAN 2020 2 FEB 2020 11 FEB 2020 7 MAR 2020 8 MAR 2020 11 MAR 2020 15 MAR 2020 16 MAR 2020 Wuhan Municipal China identified Thailand reported The Chinese The Inter-Agency The World Health PH reported the first The WHO renamed The DoH reported PH President Rodrigo The WHO declared Metro Manila was Enhanced Community Health Commission the new type of the first case of government placed Task Force (IATF) for Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 death 2019-nCoV ARD to the country’s first Duterte issued COVID-19 a placed under Quarantine was in China reported a coronavirus, initially coronavirus disease Wuhan under the Management of the coronavirus outbreak a outside of China. COVID-19. locally-transmitted Proclamation No. pandemic. PH Community expanded to cover the cluster of cases of called the 2019 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. The Emerging Infectious Public Health Emergency of COVID-19 case. 922 placing the recorded its first Quarantine, initially entire Luzon. President pneumonia in Wuhan, Novel Coronavirus outside of China. Philippines (PH) Diseases convened International Concern. The PH raised its alert entire nation under a local death from for 30-days, or until Duterte placed the Hubei Province. A Acute Respiratory stopped accepting for the first time. Department of Health (DoH) system to Code Red State of Public Health COVID-19. April 14, 2020. country under a State novel coronavirus Disease in-bound flights from confirmed the first COVID-19 Sub-level 1. Emergency. Confirmed COVID-19 of Calamity for the was eventually (2019-nCov ARD). Wuhan, China. case in the PH, a Chinese cases reached over next six months due to identified. tourist from Wuhan, China. 100. COVID-19. THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ To fend this off, developers and pump-primer, while also emphasizing the enormous Challenges of the ‘new normal’ to housing standards their groups have swiftly appealed to relief that the reopening of the housing sector would the government to allow the resump- accord to its around four million workers, whose liveli- he housing sector is not exempted from the chal- For decades, this setup has worked with amend- tion of construction works in the hous- hood have been affected by the COVID-19. lenges posed by the so-called “new normal.” ments every now and then to respond to the call of ing sector. He likewise stressed that the industry would be able T The Batas Pambansa (BP) 220, enacted in times. Although many complain that the houses are In a letter to the Department of to adapt to the “new normal” once operations resumes. 1972, prescribed minimum standards for socialized and too small, yet these units continue to be built and Human Settlements and Urban Upon Secretary Del Rosario’s recommendation, the THE COLUMN economic housing. sold, and none can be faulted because they follow Development (DHSUD), the CREBA IATF amended the Omnibus Guidelines on the ECQ It liberalized the standards from those imposed by the prescribed standards, fall within the price ceiling, proposed a productive work-site quar- enforcement and allowed the resumption of “priority EVA MARIA the National Building Code, with the end view of maximiz- and are affordable to the target market. The hous- antine scheme wherein workers would public and private construction and infrastructure proj- P. MARFIL ing the use of urban land and lessen the cost of housing ing sector was indeed pleased and proud that it had be housed in barracks located within or ects” beginning May 16, which also marked the transi- packages without compromising environmental ecology, found a solution which is both cost-efficient to the near their construction sites, rather than tion of Metro Manila and other areas into a lockdown hygiene and cleanliness, physical, cultural and spiritual developers and affordable to the home buyers. being quarantined in their homes. status of Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine development and public safety. Then the coronavirus disease 2019 dropped upon This way, workers can go back to their (MECQ) from an ECQ. BP 220 allowed, among others, smaller floor areas, everyone. This kind of scenario was never factored in jobs while observing the strict health and smaller lot sizes, lower ceiling clearances, and smaller BP 220. The health protocols and the new normal have safety protocols imposed by the govern- ADAPTING TO THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ setbacks between housing units, and even the absence of greatly upset the well-established standards. ment, thus allowing the resumption of rior to the NCR’s transition to MECQ, Secretary partitions, which, according to some, is not gender-sen- Complying with social distancing in a socialized hous- halted projects. Del Rosario signed Department Order (DO) No. sitive. ing unit or even in an economic housing unit is quite a chal- DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario P2020-05, which outlined the guidelines enabling This resulted in cramped dwellings in subdivisions, lenge. Restricted public transportation makes it difficult heard the concerns of the housing sector real estate businesses, development and construction which are compensated by open spaces and commu- for those living far from essential services. It’s time for a and immediately took action. operations and activities covered by the department to nity facilities, such as parks, playgrounds, multi-purpose paradigm shift. It’s time to revisit housing standards with After a series of consultations with the resume their activities amid the COVID-19 crisis. building and club houses where residents can hold activ- not just affordability and a maximized use of urban land in top officials of the DHSUD, officials of the Through a series of meetings held via video confer- ities they could not do in their homes due to the limited mind, but a sincere commitment to prioritize compliance Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs), as well as real ences among DHSUD and KSA officials, and real estate space. with health protocols. estate developer-partners, Secretary Del developer-partners, Secretary Del Rosario and his team Since the cost of land is much cheaper away from Rosario recommended for the resumption of formulated a set of protocols and guidelines that would towns or city centers, residential subdivisions tend to Eva Maria P. Marfil is a Project Development Officer IV construction works and the buying and selling be enforced in order to ensure that health and safety be built in areas that are a bit away from some essential and Public Housing and Settlements Division Officer-in- activities in the housing sector to the Inter- standards would be met. services. Public transport is able to ease this problem. Charge of DHSUD Regional Office 6. Agency Task Force (IATF) on the Manage- The DO was to make sure that mandatory require- ment of Emerging Infectious Diseases. ments, as well as health/safety protocols and standards Secretary Del Rosario highlighted the set by the DHSUD, are observed and complied with by industry’s crucial role as an economic all developers and covered entities in the housing sector.

Photos in collage came from Unsplash.

COVID-19 Timeline (Sources: DoH, PCOO, WHO) March 2020 April 2020 May 2020 June 2020 THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ 17 MAR 2020 28 MAR 2020 15 APR 2020 23 APR 2020 27 APR 2020 1 MAY 2020 7 MAY 2020 16 MAY 2020 22 MAY 2020 28 MAY 2020 1 JUNE 2020 The first Filipino Confirmed COVID-19 Luzon remained in The Department The DHSUD ECQ was extended Confirmed COVID-19 Metro Manila and high-risk IATF amended its Confirmed COVID-19 Metro Manila and COVID-19 patient cases in PH climbed lockdown. ECQ was of Human recommended the in Metro Manila cases in PH soared to areas transitioned to Modified Omnibus Guidelines on cases in the high-risk areas recovered. to 1,000. extended for another Settlements and resumption of work in and other high-risk 10,000. Enhanced Community the Implementation of Philippines went transitioned to GCQ. 15 days, or until Urban Development the housing sector to areas. Moderate Quarantine (MECQ) from ECQ. Community Quarantine beyond 15,000. Other areas were April 30. Confirmed (DHSUD) met with the IATF. and low-risk areas Under MECQ, the housing in the Philippines to eased to a Modified COVID-19 cases in PH’s top real estate transitioned to sector could resume stopped allow all real estate General Community PH reached 5,000. developer groups. General Community operations subject to guidelines activities in areas under Quarantine, in Quarantine (GCQ). and mandatory requirements. MECQ. preparation for the Meanwhile, other areas “new normal” transitioned to GCQ. THE ‘NEW NORMAL’ One of the key guidelines stated in the DO was to “I am ordering all [DHSUD] regional public and private construction and infrastructure subject all returning workers to either a company/ directors that if there will be problems on projects” in areas under ECQ. contractor-funded testing for COVID-19 using Rapid the ground, immediately act on the issue so “The protocols should be applied regardless of the Testing Kits or a five-day quarantine. The same that it will be directly and immediately classification of risks, whether low or high, to ensure the must be done to any person who leaves the work site addressed,” Secretary Del Rosario said. protection of our workers and to keep construction sites before being allowed to resume his or her work. “At the same time, the DHSUD COVID-free,” Secretary Del Rosario stated. “There should Workers must also be provided with on-site or The protocols should be regional officers shall ensure develop- be strict compliance to productive work-site quarantine.” nearby quarters, an adequate assistance package for ers strictly comply to our guidelines DHSUD’s pro-active measures in urging the govern- anyone who may contract the virus in the course of applied regardless of the and other government protocols,” ment to allow the restart of housing industry-related their employment and an individual or group insur- he added following the IATF’s activities amid the health crisis have earned praises from ance coverage with illness and death benefits for all classification of risks, whether issuance of Resolution No.34, the department’s partner-developers, namely the Subdi- COVID ‑19-related risks. which allowed the vision and Housing Developers Association, the Organi- Minimum health standards such as frequent low or high, to ensure the resumption zation of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers of washing of hands, wearing of face masks at all times, of “priority the Philippines, the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ temperature scanning and observing physical/social protection of our workers Association Inc., the National Real Estate Association distancing are also a must. and the Philippine Association of Realtors Boards Inc., Housing developers and contractors who wish to and to keep construction sites saying that the development will not only benefit the resume business must formally submit a notice to the housing industry, but also tens of thousands of workers pertinent DHSUD Regional Office about their inten- COVID‑free. who were affected by the pandemic. tion, together with a sworn “Certification and Undertak- Meanwhile, as another key step in adjusting to the ing” which affirms their compliance to the mandatory ­Eduardo D. Del Rosario, “new normal,” the DHSUD has sought assistance from requirement. homeowners associations, as well as homeowners DHSUD Secretary Regional Offices have been instructed to keep an eye federations and confederations in enforcing ECQ and on all covered entities that are set to resume operations General Community Quarantine protocols, such as and keep track of their compliance to DHSUD’s require- wearing of face masks at all times and practicing ment, regulations and policies. social distancing. Guidelines on how to maintain proper hygiene and disinfection measures were likewise issued, with Secretary Del Rosario emphasizing the need to create a database of all homeowners and associations to better communicate and exchange information during emergency situations. Some experts say that COVID-19 would stay in our midst, and we, humans, would need to find a way on how to live with it. No one, not even among the world’s leading medi- cal experts and scientists could tell when this pandemic would be over. But for now, what we can do is to follow proper health protocols, especially at work, and learn to adjust to the “new normal” for us to move forward. After all, health is indeed our wealth.

Photos came from Unsplash. 22 23 FROM THE REGIONS JUNE 2020

NCR

REGION 1 NCR braces for resumption DHSUD staff take ‘virtual’ oath of real estate activities QUEZON CITY — DHSUD-National Capital Region (DHSUD-NCR) has DHSUD’s Regional Offices were led by their respective director and officers-in-charge received an influx of applications from real estate companies for them REGION 5 REGION 12 (OIC): Atty. Jacinto Doral (NCR), Atty. Raymundo A. Foronda (Region 1), Grace De Vera to resume activities, including the resumption of construction works The Central and Regional Offices of the Department of (Region 2), Mary O. Amoroso (CAR), Atty. Lyndon D. Juntilla (Region 3), Atty. Jann Roby Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) R. Otero (Region 4A), Atty. Dunstan San Vicente (Region 4B), Atty. Richard L. Manila on their projects that were previously halted due to the Enhanced (Region 5), Atty. Melchor M. Calopiz (Region 6), Engr. Francis D. Ordeniza (Region 7), Community Quarantine (ECQ) that was imposed due to the COVID‑19 came together and demonstrated how they adapt to the Evelyn Bobier (Region 8), Ciriaco Crus (Region 9), Charito A. Raagas (Region 10), virus. Atty. Roberto Mauro Palma Gil (Region 11), Jovita G. Solarte “new normal” by conducting a mass virtual oath of office. (Region 12), and Leonardo Buyan (CARAGA). REGION 8 In just a span of three days since the DHSUD released the guide- REGION 4A lines detailing the mandatory requirements for the resumption of real estate and construction activities, the DHSUD-NCR has already DHSUD Secretary Eduardo REGION II received 18 applications involving a total of 62 offices and projects Del Rosario presided and throughout the region. administered the oath CAR “It is only a matter of time until applications multiply as there are a using a virtual meeting, REGION 10 lot of projects and real estate firms in the capital,” DHSUD-NCR Offi- which was shown live on cer-in-Charge lawyer Norman Jacinto P. Doral said. “But, NCR is ready DHSUD’s official Face- for it,” he added. book page. REGION 11 The DHSUD-NCR said rigorous evaluations of all document were Thanks to tech- being undertaken in order to make sure that all mandatory require- nology, the newly REGION 7 CENTRAL OFFICE ments are met by the firms before they are allowed to resume their appointed staff Photo of Secretary operations. from DHSUD’s Del Rosario taken by It must also carry out inspections with strict adherence to the Regional Offices Christian V. Cabajar. Other photos courtesy COVID-19 protocols before it would give its nod to the resumption of were able to join of the respective REGION 6 REGION 2 operations of the real estate companies. Regional Offices. their colleagues The DHSUD requires all real estate business and developers to NCR from the Central apply and seek the approval of their respective Regional Offices if Office. Together, the DHSUD they wish to resume their business activities. employees who were present The applications received by the DHSUD-NCR pointed to a promis- HSAC-7 all swore to provide unwaver- ing sign that the real estate industry, which was among the industries ing public service in front of that was severely affected by the COVID-19 and the ECQ, is eager to Secretary Del Rosario. get back on its feet to meet its commitments to its buyers by mani- festing support and compliance to the issued guidelines.

Region VIII Region XII Region V HOUSES FOR QUAKE VICTIMS KIDAPAWAN CITY — DHSUD Secretary Office 12 Officer-In-Charge Jovita Solarte. In Region-8 opens new office Eduardo Del Rosario led the ceremonial turn- October 2019, multiple strong earthquakes over of housing units for earthquake affected only days apart struck and destroyed homes families in Barangay Ilomavis, Kidapawan City, across Region 12. BY CAMILLE LELINA Cotabato on February 24, 2020. Kidapawan City was one of the most Also present in the event were National affected wherein buildings both residential TACLOBAN CITY— The enactment of the Depart- different services of the newly created depart- The DHSUD‑8 has already conducted two Housing Authority General Manager Marcelino and commercial were severely damaged. To INFORMATION DRIVE Escalada, Jr., Department of Social Welfare help residents who had been left homeless, ment of Human Settlements and Urban Develop- ment, which include housing and real estate, land major activities during the first quarter of 2020, LEGAZPI CITY — As part of the nationwide and Development Secretary Rolando Joselito the LGU of Kidapawan City bought an area in information campaign to inform local ment Act, which became effective on March 01, use planning and urban development, homeown- and these are the Climate and Disaster Risk Bautista and DHSUD Assistant Secretary Barangay Ilomavis to resettle the affected stakeholders on the salient features of the Melissa A. Aradanas, and DHSUD Regional families. 2019 created the Department of Human Settle- ers association and public housing. Assessment (CDRA) Training/Workshop and the National Urban Development and Housing ments and Urban Development (DHSUD) and its The stakeholders were elated to learn about Skills Upgrading Seminar on DHSUD Devolved Framework, the DHSUD Regional Office 5 16 Regional Offices. the opening of DHSUD‑8 in Tacloban City because Functions. convened a three-part roll-out to cater to Region XI all of the provinces in Bicol Region last year. One of the Regional Offices is the DHSUD it will be easier for them to submit their applica- The CDRA Training was conducted from Febru- CLUP REVIEW Attendees were from various stakeholders, th Regional Office 8 (DHSUD-8), which opened last tions and even request for any assistance. ary 24 to 28 for 16 Local Government Units of TAGUM CITY — DHSUD Regional Office 11 EnP. Iyarmoon G. Dulay (5 from the right), including representatives from LGUs, national (DHSUD-11) Environment and Land Use DHSUD-11 staff Marcelyn A. Corro (4th government agencies, private sector, May 5, 2020 and located along Maharlika Highway Eastern Visayas Region consists of six 6 prov- Southern Leyte. Planning Division OIC-Division Head Ms. Eden from the right), Provincial Planning and academe and other organizations. The activity corner Congressman Mate Avenue in Tacloban City inces which include Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, The training was the first step in formulating A. Santiago (6th from the right) conducts a Development Coordinator of Davao Del Norte, sought to bring together all stakeholders Provincial Board Land Use Committee (PLUC) EnP. Nelson Plata (center) and his staff, in the housing sector to collaborate toward where it also transferred its liaison desk from the Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar. It has or updating a risk-sensitive Comprehensive Land Review of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Municipal Planning and Development protecting the environment, infrastructures, GSIS office in Tacloban City. seven cities and 136 municipalities. The Regional Use Plan. and Zoning Ordinances of New Corella, Davao Coordinator EnP. Edgar Allan Valle (7th from and public spaces from the drastic effects of Del Norte on 20 February 2020. the right) at the Bulwagan ng Karunungan, climate change and to work together towards The opening of the office provided stakehold- Office is headed by Regional Director Engr. Evelyn On the other hand, the Skills Upgrading Semi- She is joined by DHSUD-11 Planner/ Government Center, Provincial Capitol sustainable development and improved quality ers in Region 8 the opportunity to avail of the A. Bobier. nar was held from March 3-5. Geographical Information System specialist Compound, Tagum City, Davao del Norte. of urban living. 24 25 FROM THE REGIONS JUNE 2020

Region IV-A The group was assisted by ment, Inc., Raemulan Lands, Inc. 500 Taal evacuees who were volunteers from different hous- and Aboitiz Land, Inc. also sent temporarily housed in Ibaan, ing federations of Cavite prov- volunteers. Batangas. Taal rehab on full-throttle ince that included the Federation While heavy ash fall and The FGDs were made in order Of Springville City HOA (Home- frequent low-magnitude after- to determine the condition of the BY NINI GO SANCHEZ owners Association), Inc. shocks still occur during the evacuees in the relocation site (FOCSHAI), Federation of HOA PDNA, the team successfully and whether they have to perma- DHSUD-4A convenes IBAAN, Batangas — When the Taal Volcano of Dasma City Cavite (FHAD- carried out its initial assessment. nently stay or to relocate. the first Taal Shelter ACC), Bacoor HOA Council Inc. The PDNA was followed Engineer Maria Belinda V. Task Force Meeting at in Batangas erupted on January 12 this year, (BHOACI) and FEDHOA EAST by Focus Group Discussion Sevalla, district manager of the Shakey’s Calamba, Laguna together with the provincial thousands of Batanguenos GENTRI (Gen. Trias). (FGDs) led by Regional Direc- National Housing Administra- government of Batangas Private developers like tor Otero on March 6, 2020 in tion (Batangas and Quezon) also and representatives from were left homeless. various agencies of the Convergence Develop- order to assist the not less than attended the discussions. government.

With the mammoth destruc- On February 22 and 23, 2020, Staff from DHSUD-4A met with volcanic eruption victims A view of Seabreeze Residences, in Ibaan, Batangas where the victims Photos courtesy of tion, the government desig- the DHSUD‑4A, headed by its to assess the condition of the evacuees in the relocation site. settled after moving out of their homes in the aftermath of Taal’s eruption. DHSUD-4A nated the Department of Human OIC-Regional Director Jann Settlements and Urban Devel- Roby R. Otero, who is a lawyer, opment Regional Office 4A along with his division OICs (DHSUD ‑4A), though being a and personnel, carried out a newly-created agency, to lead Post Disaster Needs Assessment the rehabilitation and recovery (PDNA) for the towns of Agon- efforts for the victims. cillo, Lemery and Taal.

CAR, Regions I & II Region VII Work as usual for DHSUD offices in Northern Luzon Accounting of public land ongoing in Visayas BAGUIO CITY — The DHSUD in With the implementation of a Northern Luzon opened its doors no-contact policy, plastic coverings BY ROMA MAE QUIJANO & ED ALAINE AGUELO to the public on May 18, 2020 were installed at the office’s entrance CEBU CITY — The Department of Human Settle- information such as lot number and technical after Baguio City transitioned into in Baguio City. ments and Urban Development Regional Office description were also included in the report. a General Community Quarantine Also, a washing area for clients 7 (DHSUD-7) has marked the start of the second The report also said that most of the public (GCQ) from the Enhanced Commu- was designated with the installation quarter of this year with the inventory of public lands are serving as “residential” while some nity Quarantine (ECQ). of a faucet and a lavatory. land in Region 7 even while the Enhanced have been classified as agricultural. The DHSUD’s three Regional Security guards, who under- Community Quarantine (ECQ) is being observed. Some of the lands were also categorized as Offices in Northern Luzon are went health protocols training, were The accounting of government lands was “institutional and recreational areas” by hosting currently housed at the Cordillera issued with necessary masks, face undertaken by the office, and it was carried out various structures like public schools, municipal Administrative Region’s (CAR) office shields, temperature scanners and under Republic Act 11201 (the law that created halls and sports gymnasium or courts. in Baguio City, while Region 1 and 2 coveralls. the DHSUD) and Republic Act 7279 or the Urban An aerial view of land owned by the local government Earlier, the Philippine Statistics Office scout for their physical offices in their In line with the thrust of DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, DHSUD-CAR, 1 and 2 assure The first week of work was very Development and Housing Act of 1992. of Sibulan in Negros Oriental. projected a demand of 420,000 new housing respective regions. their stakeholders and the public that they are ready to adapt to the new normal, move forward and busy for the three Regional Offices, that the department is their most trusted partner for a sound housing industry. According to Section 7 of RA 7279, city and Photo courtesy of DHSUD-7 units in Central Visayas, 172,000 units of which As they are all based in Baguio which also held their respective municipal governments are tasked to conduct said 32 local government units (LGUs) or 24% of were for economic housing. City, the regional directors of CAR The three Regional Offices will work week schedule manned by a regional inter-agency briefings. the inventory of lands whose ownership or title the total number of the LGUs in the region have Section 5.II.d of RA 11201 mandated the and Regions 1 and 2, who have been prepare their own accomplishment skeletal workforce. For one, the DHSUD-CAR was belong to the government or any of its agen- already made their accounting. DHSUD to acquire and administer government designated as officers-in charge, and monitoring reports covering their Prior to the resumption of oper- preoccupied with the formal appli- cies including government-owned or controlled The inventory reports included the location lands that have been idle for at least 10 years have agreed to map out management own area of operations and provide ations, the three offices undertook cation, evaluation and inspection of corporations and their subsidiaries. of the property, total land area, zoning classifi- and prioritize them for housing and rural devel- strategies aimed at bringing DHSUD’s the core services of the department. measures that would ensure the the proposed ‘ELEVE Condominium’ Since the inventory began, the DHSUD-7 cation and existing land use or actual use. Other opment. services closer to the people in their The offices are expected to oper- safety of both of their employees and project located at Camp 7 in Baguio areas of jurisdiction. ate efficiently even under a four-day the public. City. 26 27 LEGAL MATTERS JUNE 2020 JUNE 2020 COMMUNITY BUILDING The HSAC Housing assistance offered chronicles to BP2 beneficiaries BY REYNALDO M. DE LEON ualified Filipino families opting The heavy concentration of invest- six months from the program’s launch on The Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC) to restart their lives back in their ment and employment have lured Filipi- May 6. home provinces may now do so nos to urban areas around the Philippines, “We need to spread regional develop- implemented a work-from-home arrangement during the — and with new houses to boot in particular, Metro Manila, which ment and balance this development by duration of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) due to Q — as the Department of Human propagated the easy spread of the providing other opportunities for Settlements and Urban Development COVID-19 virus across the dense the people in the countryside,” the COVID-19 pandemic. (DHSUD) offers up its available housing communities. GM Escalada said during the units to the government’s Balik Probinsya, The government launched government’s presser Laging Bagong Pag-asa program (BP2). the BP2 to decongest cities Handa.

The work scheme was adopted in line adjudicators, lawyers and support staff HSAC Executive Commissioner Atty. Melzar P. Galicia DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosa- and spur economic growth According to EO 114, the with Announcement No. 13, Series of until the placement of former HLURB (2nd from right) poses with other HSAC Commissioners: rio said that the department, through the in rural areas. BP2 Council will guaran- 2020 that was issued by the Civil Service (Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board) (from left) Commissioners Atty. Fidel J. Exconde Jr., Atty. National Housing Authority (NHA), has The BP2 was proposed tee a whole of government Marylin M. Pintor, and Atty. Ria Corazon A. Golez-Cabrera Commission (CSC). personnel to HSAC has been finalized. around 3,000 existing housing units that by Senator Christopher action to implement the However, amid the ECQ, and as a matter Also, newly designated regional adjudi- can be made available to BP2 beneficiaries. Lawrence “Bong” Go and insti- program. of procedure, an assessment of HSAC’s cators needed training. on COVID-19 that would recommend, The “unoccupied and unawarded” units tutionalized by President As a member of the coun- performance was conducted during the The assessment also showed the ECQ implement, monitor, coordinate and located in various parts of the country were Rodrigo Duterte’s Executive cil, the DHSUD, through the NHA General Manager (GM) first quarter of 2020. impaired the mobility of adjudicators educate personnel on COVID-19 related originally intended for members of the Order (EO) 114. and BP2 Council Executive Director NHA, is mandated to provide Among the other findings, the assess- and support staff. The limited mailing policies and guidelines. uniformed services, particularly the Armed “Through the NHA, we are Marcelino Escalada Jr. assistance in terms of housing ment confirmed the agency’s success in services available while on ECQ also crip- On April 17, 2020, the HSAC Manage- Forces of the Philippines. ready to offer our available subsidy to those who will avail adjudicating cases in pled the Regional ment Committee (Mancom) conducted its “The DHSUD is all-out in supporting the housing units to those who will decide to of the program. the housing sector. Adjudication first video conference via Zoom. Accord- BP2 not only to decongest highly-urbanized settle to the countryside and are qualified to The BP2 beneficiaries will receive Notably, all the Branches’ abil- ingly, the Commissioners, Mancom cities but more importantly for the equita- receive such assistance,” Secretary Del Rosa- short, medium and long-term assistance, decisions made ity to issue and members, and the Arbitrators in the NCR ble distribution of resources and opportuni- rio said. with cash, education, health and liveli- by the HSAC’s The HSAC boldly faces its release decisions. and the regions digitally met to discuss ties,” Secretary Del Rosario said. NHA General Manager (GM) hood assistance and housing subsidy. Board of Commis- continuing quest to afford Despite the the concerns of the Commission. More and BP2 Council Executive The first batch of more than 100 BP2 sioners that have speedy and inexpensive constraints, the conferences via Zoom were held and Director Marcelino Esca- beneficiaries have arrived in Leyte on May been brought or HS AC ca r r ied followed later. lada Jr. estimates the BP2 21 after being sent-off a day prior by Secre- appealed before the dispensation of justice. on with its task. On May 21, 2020, the HSAC conducted to have more than one tary Del Rosario, GM Escalada, Senator Go Court of Appeals B y m i d - M a y, its first virtual Legal Conference to million applicants in and other officials. were reaffirmed by Atty. Melzar P. Galicia HSAC’s arbi- afford the Commissioners, the Arbitra- the appellate court. HSAC Execom t r a t o r s a n d tors, and legal staff a final review of the Still, the assess- legal staff have proposed 2020 Rules of Procedure of the DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (right) joins Senator ment also found accomplished HSAC before its referral to the Board en Christopher Lawrence Go (left), Executive Secretary Salvador out some constraints, and this include 106 draft decisions on cases and 69 banc for approval. The HSAC envisions Medialdea (center), NHA GM and BP2 Council Executive Director Marcelino Escalada Jr. in sending-off the first batch of the pendency of cases. drafts on appealed cases for a total of 175 the Rules of Procedure as a means to BP2 beneficiaries. While the bulk of regional cases are drafts. further improve HSAC’s service to its logged in the National Capital Region Likewise, to improve on its perfor- stakeholders. (NCR) with 704 cases, most of these cases mance, the HSAC devised a “Catch-Up- On May 26, 2020, a mass oath-taking are not yet ripe for resolutions. As such, Plan” that designated adjudicators to of all HSAC officers and employees was HSAC arbitrators are not yet obligated to HSAC-4A of staff with legal background conducted online. It was officiated by render judgment on them. from the Central Office and the Office of Execom Galicia. In an advisory, Commis- For regions having cases that are up for the Commissioners. sioner Marylin M. Pintor reminded those judgment, Region 4A has the highest number The adjudicators will work on a concur- who were sworn in to submit the neces- of cases that are ripe for resolutions with rent basis to resolve ripe cases. A physical sary documents in compliance with the 217 ready cases, or 98% of the total number of inventory of cases in the NCR and Region rules of the CSC. pending cases. However, HSAC‑4A lacks the 4A is also underway. “The HSAC boldly faces its continuing necessary manpower to adjudicate them. In May 2020, Executive Commis- quest to afford speedy and inexpensive Currently, Region 4A has only one adju- sioner Melzar P. Galicia ordered the dispensation of justice,” Execom Galicia dicator and HSAC cannot hire additional constitution of an HSAC Task Force said. Buses bound for Leyte await at the Manila Seedlings NHA lot, Agham Street, Quezon City on May 20, 2020 for Photos taken by Christian V. the first batch of BP2 beneficiaries. Cabajar 28 29 FEATURE JUNE 2020

MEDIA CORNER Did you know? The blue and red colors with the sun and three stars at the center of DHSUD marks first anniversary Being new — barely two — the DHSUD strives to boost its image and intro- the DHSUD logo represents the Philippine flag. Together, they form duce to the public our indelible mark of service which is made possible a shelter which is a symbolism for the country’s housing sector. The seven figures joining hands represent a community Fund and the Social Housing through the invaluable help of our media partners. TEXT & PHOTOS and also embody the department’s seven pillars: the former BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR Finance Corp., in addressing the HUDCC and the original six Key Shelter Agencies, namely the housing needs of Filipino fami- former HLURB, NHA, HDMF or Pag-IBIG fund, HGC, NHMFC and SHFC. ebruary 14 is not lies, especially the underpriv- only a day to cele- ileged, through careful urban brate love. It is also planning and development and Home & Letters the Department of constant coordination with Human Settlements partner agencies. Throughout this COVID-19 pandemic ordeal, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has done its best in trying to Fand Urban Development’s Last year, the department had ease the strain caused by the community quarantine to the Filipino people. (DHSUD) 1st anniversary. focused on transitioning from And somehow in the process of performing our mandate, we have gotten On this very day last year, the Housing and Urban Devel- some heart-warming gestures of gratitude. President Rodrigo Duterte opment Coordinating Council The Shelter has compiled some of the best messages we’ve received, signed into law Republic Act and the Housing and Land Use and sharing them with everyone. No. 11201 that paved the way for Regulatory Board. Nevertheless, the creation of the department, the DHSUD is prepared to fulfill Atty. Moby Arquiza, Vice-President-NCR & Government Liaison, PAREB Secretary Del Rosario (center) awards certificates of appreciation to Senator Francis Tolentino Friday, May 15, 2020 at 5:24pm as well as the Human Settle- its mandate of addressing the and Cavite 2nd-District Representative Strike Revilla, received by representatives from their Thank you, DHSUD Secretary Del Rosario and Director Angel Aguila for gracing our PAREB (Phil- ments Adjudication Commission challenges faced by the national respective offices. They are flanked by: (from left to right) DHSUD Assistant Secretary Melissa Aradanas, HSAC Executive Commissioner Atty. Melzar Galicia, DHSUD Administrative Service OIC- ippine Association of Real Estate Boards) 60th Anniversary [with your] message of hope, and for (HSAC). housing sector. Director Jeanette Cruz, and Assistant Secretary Leira Buan. passionately supporting PAREB’s appeal to allow buying and selling of real estate. We are proud As the country’s primary Also, part of the department’s of our partnership to bring greater significance to the real estate industry. Since 2018, we have agency for housing, the creation herculean task is to provide “We consider housing, both to housing settlements across vowed to support the key housing programs of DHSUD, and we fully support your thrust towards of DHSUD is also in line with sustainable homes and resettle- as a need and a right of all Filipi- the nation, aside from promoting Government-Private Sector Convergence strategy, which we will proactively support! Our hats off President Duterte’s dream of ments to Filipinos affected by nos and it is our responsibility in a safe and clean environment. to you, Secretary Del Rosario, and to all DHSUD officials who are very dedicated and open- minded... granting the wish of Filipino calamities over the past years, the housing sector to assist and Filipinos can also expect Mabuhay kayong lahat !!! (Cheers to everyone!) families who want to have a including the powerful earth- support their housing needs,” that the DHSUD will continue Nestor Correa Maribeth Nepomuceno Heath house of their own. quakes that battered Batanes Secretary Del Rosario said. its BALAI (Building Adequate, May 16, 2020 May 15, 2020 Carrying the theme “Maayos and Mindanao as well as the “We will continue to expand Livable, Affordable and Inclu- at 5:33pm at 7:56pm na Tahanan, Matatag na eruption of the Taal volcano that and enhance our capabilities by sive) Filipino Program while Thank you Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario Thank you, Secretary Del Rosario for your presence and support during our 60th Anniversary! for inspiring us with your words. Pamayanan, Ating Pagka-Isa- had displaced tens of thousands working with all stakeholders. further bolstering its part- han,” the event highlighted the of Filipinos early this year. Our rules, regulations and poli- nerships with organizations - UPON SECRETARY DEL ROSARIO’S ADDRESS DELIVERED ON PAREB’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY commitment of the department The DHSUD, as well as the cies must complement our finan- that share the same objec- along with its Key Shelter Agen- KSAs and its partner organiza- cial and production capabilities in tives as that of the depart- Maria Angela Valeza Razmadazz G Yaj cies (KSAs), namely the National tions, has remained steadfast order to achieve synergy,” he added. ment, according to Secretary April 18, 2020 March 23, 2020 at 8:28pm Housing Authority, the National in finding ways to minimize the With assistance from local Del Rosario. at 3:23pm Maraming salamat po. Pagpalain po kayo.  Home Mortgage Finance Corp, impact of these natural disasters government units, the DHSUD “We will do this with our (Thank you very much. God bless you) the Home Development Mutual by discovering new and afford- is pushing for programs that are strong partnerships with all Garbin Evaristo Lily C Oton able technologies that can meant to lessen stakeholders especially those March 23, 2020 at 8:38am March 19, 2020 at 9:24pm Maraming salamat po, Sir. God bless. DHSUD Secretary be incorporated into the the impact of directly involved in the housing Maraming salamat po. (Thank you very much, Sir.) Eduardo Del Rosario department’s housing n a t u r a l sector,” Secretary Del Rosario (Thank you very much.) leads the anniversary - ON SECRETARY DEL ROSARIO’S ANNOUNCEMENT ON LOAN MORATORIUM FOR ALL KEY SHELTER AGENCIES UNDER THE DEPARTMENT ceremony. plans. hazards said.

Scenes from DHSUD’s first anniversary celebration. Sheryll Tiangco Mar 23, 2020 at 2:33pm Good Afternoon, Loudette Banzon-Carlos Again, [I am] very impressed with the kind of service April 20, 2020 you provide — very quick and efficient. [I] at 5:37pm Will certainly await and coordinate with your Thank you for looking after and Regional Office. considering the sentiments of Thank you once again. our clients who all dream to Kind regards, have their home. The Depart- Sheryll. ment Order 004 would help a lot of clients... - UPON INQUIRY ON BREACH OF CONTRACT ISSUES - UPON DHSUD’S ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE MORATORIUM OF LOAN PAYMENTS Write to us FOR IN-HOUSE FINANCING OF BUYERS Write to The Shelter. Send your contributions, OF HOUSES, HOUSE AND LOTS AND messages and feedback to [email protected]. CONDOMINIUM UNITS 3028 COMMUNITY BUILDING JUNE 2020

DESPITE COVID-19 Marawi rehab on target

BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

he COVID-19 pandemic has through: Islamic microf- brought chills down the global inance, dispersion of economy’s spine, but commit- livestock poultry and ted groups like the Task Force establishment of MRRR budget allotment Bangon Marawi (TFBM) showed multiplier goat and Tselflessness and resiliency amid the crisis. native chicken ₱155.7 million

While businesses closed and most Fili- farms and trading SHFC pinos were forced to stay indoors, medical posts or markets. Marawi LGU ₱558.2 million and government frontline workers opted to Although the risk their safety to help those in need. The pandemic stopped BARMM-MAFAR ₱91.3 million TFBM and its implementing agencies did key industries LWUA ₱766.5 million just the same. and government The TFBM, chaired by DHSUD Secre- agencies all over the DPWH ₱80.2 million tary Eduardo Del Rosario, ensured that country, Secretary Del DepEd ₱3.3 million internally displaced people (IDPs) in war- Rosario said that the TFBM torn Marawi City received essential goods is continuing their rehabilita- TOTAL ₱3.56 billion and services amidst the health crisis. tion efforts and would meet Although the community lockdown the government’s self-im- A model house of the NHA-UN-Habitat’s permanent shelter project halted the construction of public facili- posed deadline. for Marawi IDPs residing in MAA’s (Most Affected Area) ‘no-build zones’ ties inside Marawi’s Most Affected Area “Despite the adverse effects of (MAA), personnel from the TFBM and its the COVID-19 in all sectors, we are confi- government over its efforts in rehabili- implementing agencies worked tirelessly dent that our rehab target completion on tating Marawi. in distributing aid, relief packs, seeds and December 2021 is manageable and attain- “All of these [progress] prove that various livelihood kits to IDPs during the able,” Secretary Del Rosario said. government critics are wrong. Let me reit- community quarantine. They also set-up He likewise added that the TFBM Field erate that their claims on inaction and decontamination tents, rolling stores and Office, led by Assistant Secretary Felix neglect are very inaccurate and unfair,” satellite markets, provided potable water, Castro Jr., continued to mobilize person- Secretary Del Rosario said. enhanced internet connection, imple- nel from implementing agencies during “The government is committed to reha- mented skills training, and continued the community quarantine. In addition, bilitating Marawi City into a peaceful and construction of road widening projects and and according to the reports that he had economically progressive city. Total reha- permanent shelters outside the MAA. received, all of the IDPs have been moved bilitation is not only constructing physical This year, the Office of the President out of evacuation centers and into shelters infrastructure. Equally important are the approved the release of ₱3.56 billion to the mostly built by the government. numerous social, economic, health, educa- different implementing agencies to fast At a recent video conference with repre- tional and peace-building interventions track the completion of the projects under sentatives from TFBM’s implementing that the TFBM agencies are implement- the Marawi Recovery, Rehabilitation and agencies, Secretary Del Rosario called on ing,” he added. Reconstruction Program (MRRRP). everyone involved to amplify their efforts He thanked the residents of Marawi, The allotment would fund the build- to complete their projects. especially the Maranaos for their contin- ing of temporary and permanent housing “Work double time on your respective proj- ued support and also asked for their units, public facilities inside MAA, such ects. Coordinate among yourselves to ensure patience as the TFBM exhausts all means as the Marawi Museum, the Grand Padian that all projects will go on full blast by next possible to fulfill President Rodrigo Dute- Central Market, and 24 barangay complexes month,” the TFBM chairman said. “If you have rte’s pledge of restoring the Islamic city to with health centers and madrasahs, tourist to work for 12-hours a day, do it,” he stressed. its former glory. police building, maritime building, water The construction of public facilities inside In these challenging times, the TFBM facilities, roads and other infrastructures. MAA is slated to go on full blast starting in July and its implementing agencies showed It would also facilitate the distribu- this year, according to the TFBM chairman. their unwavering commitment and passion tion of learning kits to students, beef up Meanwhile, Secretary Del Rosario in helping Marawi City get back on its feet. the productivity of farmers and fisherfolks also had words for those criticizing the Not even a pandemic can stop them.