NATIONAL HUMAN SETTLEMENTS BOARD Housing ‘super body’

CONFIRMED National Shelter Month: City: From P7 DHSUD runs after scammers P12 ashes to progress P28 Editor’s Note 3

It is with great pleasure to welcome you, dear readers, to the 2nd issue of The Shelter. Much has happened since June and we cannot wait to share all the Contents Secretary’s Corner Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development has accom­ plished in very little time.

Topping it off is the inaugural meeting of the National Human Settle­ 3 SECRETARY’S CORNER ments Board (NHSB) in October, which coinciding with the celebration of the 4 - 5 PROFILES Banner 2020 for DHSUD National Shelter Month, which is our main story in this issue. COMMUNITY BUILDING his year, the Department of Human standards in public service, we signed a And of course, who can forget the confirmation of our good Secretary 6 DHSUD-SHDA partnership Settlements and Urban Develop- Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) with , who got the Commission on Appointment’s nod last Resettlement of PAPs in railway projects underway November to become the first-ever head of the DHSUD. Tment (DHSUD) had its hands full as the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Our private partners from SHDA (Subdivision and Housing Developers FEATURE it launched several projects and programs that streamlined the documentation st Association) is also with us for the 2nd issue highlighting our partnership. 7 Making history: SEDDR is 1 ever DHSUD chief despite the limitations brought about processes for common towers to improve DHSUD joins ‘Build Back Better’ Task Force Much like before, we received updates from our Regional Offices and Key by the COVID-19 pandemic, all with the the country’s Information and Commu- Shelter Agencies on their past and current initiatives. And, we get to know MONEY MATTERS aim of further improving and elevating nication Technology facilities. We take some of DHSUD’s key officials, including Undersecretary Meynardo Sabili 8 Pag-IBIG @ 40: More aid to members the status of the housing industry in the this as an opportunity to make DHSUD who joined the family in October. 9 NHMFC’s BALAI BERDE country. a champion of “Ease of Doing Business.” nd So let us give you a tour around the Philippine’s housing and urban deve­ 10-11 SHFC marks CMP’s 32 anniversary In between the launching of these pro­ DHSUD is not only about the housing lopment landscape for the 2nd half of 2020. jects, planning, strategizing, and to say, industry and urban development. It NATIONAL SHELTER MONTH SPECIAL Enjoy! laying the foundation that sets the tone has been quick in extending financial 12 Celebrating shelter month and direction of the housing sector for the assistance to victims of the successive 13 Campaign vs real estate scammers years to come, were made. typhoons that battered the country in HIGHLIGHT The changes and major undertakings the last quarter of 2020, partnering with Editorial Board 14 - 19 NHSB: Housing ‘super body’ were taken and implemented just one other government agencies. Chairman of the Board year after the DHSUD was carved out of For its KSAs, the National Housing Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario FROM THE REGIONS two housing agencies and rose to become Authority has financed and constructed 20 - 21 Secretary Del Rosario visits CAR Members a single housing body with a mammoth duty and mandate of 24,139 housing units from January up to December 19, 2020 Undersecretary Meynardo A. Sabili Director Stefan Ema Mae P. Corregidor DHSUD-8 conducts assessment on Yolanda housing helping the underprivileged, especially the informal settler while the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund Asst. Secretary Melissa A. Aradanas Director Atty. Michael Victor C. Tezon families (ISFs), realize their dream of owning a house. has financed 75,582 units. On the other hand, the Social Housing Asst. Secretary Leira S. Buan OIC-Director Atty. Angelito F. Aguila 22 HOA orientation goes virtual Office of the Undersecretary OIC OIC-Director Atty. Ma. Lorina J. Rigor DHSUD-7 assists in census For a start, DHSUD worked on the National Housing and Finance Corporation has financed 13,256 units. Marylin M. Pintor OIC-Director Jeanette E. Cruz Urban Development Sector Plan, a 20-year roadmap in the form In , the once bustling City of Marawi, which was Chief-of-Staff Zyril D. Carlos OIC-Director Nora L. Diaz 23 DHSUD-4A’s SIKAT Project of short, medium and long term strategies, plans and programs devastated by the Daesh-inspired terrorism, has bubbled into Head Executive Asst. Leouel A. Santos OIC-Director Rowena P. Dineros Challenge accepted Director Atty. Alvin T. Claridades OIC-Director Mylene A. Rivera by DHSUD, Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs) and other stake­holders. life as its rehabilitation went into full blast beginning in July 24 MEDIA CORNER The National Human Settlements Board was also formed and with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s approval and release of Editorial Staff three resolutions were immediately approved during its inaugu- ₱3.56-billion budget. Simultaneous ground­breaking and laying 25 FEATURE Editor-in-Chief ral meeting in October. (See main story) of foundation for critical infrastructures like road networks, Mario J. Mallari 25 HOME & LETTERS We have also started revisiting and amending existing bridges, barangay centers, school buildings, market and mosques Managing Editor/Art Director housing guidelines to cope-up with the current challenges, such were undertaken. Water and power supplies were restored in Mariae Francesca R. Acosta 28 BANGON MARAWI as the ongoing pandemic. some parts of the city’s Most Affected Area. Marawi City: From ashes to progress Editor Following the imposition of a nationwide enhanced commu- I reiterate our commitment to complete Marawi’s rehabilita- Christian V. Cabajar nity quarantine (ECQ), I ordered a three-month moratorium on tion within the administration. Creative Director Connect with us monthly amortizations on housing and other loan payments In October, the DHSUD spearheaded the celebration of the Glory M. Duller Send your contributions, messages and feedback from the KSAs in compliance with the Bayanihan to Heal as National Shelter Month, which was highlighted by the launch of Writer One Act. Later on, we also imposed another 60-day moratorium the unified and intensified effort against real estate scammers by to [email protected] or [email protected] Adriana T. Roncesvalles under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act. Both measures bene- all our 16 Regional Offices. Photographer fitted some 5.5 million . On a lighter side, we’ve witnessed the birth of this newsletter, Mary Lyn M. Bosogon In our effort to help private developers amid the pandemic, The Shelter, which was launched virtually in July. Editorial Assistant DHSUD expanded the Pag-IBIG Fund’s Housing Construc- With such a busy year and a rather unconventional start due Lorraine P. Valencia tion Finance Loan facility from ₱2-billion to ₱10-billion, while to the COVID-19 pandemic, the DHSUD marches forward ready Contributors About the cover we also asked the developers to provide a grace period for to face existing and future challenges head on. Aireen B. Ogrimen Allan Leandro D.A. Merin Jesha Abesamis home-buyers under their in-house financing program. Princess Rizza Ong Camille Lelina Ed Alain G. Aguelo he cover features a visual representation Nini Go Sanchez Santiago F. Ducay of the National Human Settlements Board, Likewise, we issued guidelines on the extension of deadlines T its role and aim for the Philippine housing and interruptions of periods for compliance with requirements, sector. Synergy among members of the multi- wherein an advisory on the Implementing Rules and Regulations The Official Publication of The Department of Human Settlements and agency housing “super body” can only lead to an that ensures the provisions of uniform procedure for the grant of Urban Development upward direction or progress that symbolizes the additional time of completion for projects whose development have been delayed or affected by the pandemic was issued. DHSUD Building, Kalayaan Avenue corner Mayaman Street, Diliman, uplifting of the lives of all Filipinos, especially the , Metro , 1101 underprivileged, through increased and wider In our effort to promote transparency and stick to the highest SECRETARY EDUARDO D. DEL ROSARIO access to decent and affordable housing. www.dhsud.gov.ph [email protected] @DHSUDgovph Cover illustrated by Glory M. Duller. 4 DECEMBER 2020

Profiles

MEYNARDO A. SABILI UNDERSECRETARY One of the newest additions to the DHSUD family, Usec Meynard, who is a holder of JULIUS ERVIN O. ENCISO a Master of Laws degree as Summa Cum Laude from the University of Santo Tomas MARIA O. AMOROSO DIRECTOR IV, REGIONAL OFFICE 4B DIRECTOR IV, REGIONAL OFFICE - CORDILLERA Graduate School of Law, is no stranger to public service after having served as Mayor Regional Director (RD) Enciso was appointed by President Rodrigo Roa ADMINISTRATIVE REGION (CAR) of Lipa City, Batangas for nine consecutive years (2010-2019). Duterte on May 15, 2020 as Director IV of the DHSUD His extensive background in managing and spearheading housing and urban RD Mary, as known to her peers, was and was designated by DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario appointed a permanent director development initiatives in the local level had tasked him to lead DHSUD’s Regional as the first RD of Region 4B or . of DHSUD-CAR after heading it as He had served as Head Executive Assistant to Housing and Land Operations where the agency could best tap his expertise. officer-in-charge from January Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Usec Meynard is a recipient of various local and international awards as a local up to October 2020. official, most notable of which was the “Most Outstanding Mayor of the Philippines Commissioner Lloyd Christopher A. Lao and later, to HLURB OIC, CEO and Commissioner Melzar P. Galicia. He had also worked with the Presidential She had worked with the former HLURB- for Social Services Award.” from 2011-2019. Management Staff where he gained his knowledge and experience in CAR from 2003 up to the time that the An advocate of servant leadership, innovation and community empowerment, government. He worked with several banking institutions agency was absorbed by the DHSUD, he turned his seven-point agenda “IHELP” into a reality, as shown by the rise of and before joining the government service. holding various positions. improvement in Lipa City’s infrastructure, information and communication technology, health, RD Enciso is a graduate of San Beda College, holding a Bachelor of RD Mary holds a master’s degree in education, environment, livelihood and peace and order, turning Lipa into a progressive city. Science in Financial Management and System Development degree. Urban Management and has doctoral He is currently taking up law studies. units in Engineering (Urban Planning).

ALVIN T. CLARIDADES MICHAEL VICTOR C. TEZON EVELYN B. CAYAT FELIX V. BRAZIL, JR. DIRECTOR IV, REGIONAL OFFICE 2 DIRECTOR III, REGIONAL OFFICE 4A DIRECTOR IV, ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE DIRECTOR IV, LEGAL SERVICE RD Cayat leads and oversees DATC, as he is fondly called by his colleagues, Atty. Tezon oversees the operations and Assistant Regional Director (ARD) Brazil is currently the operations of the DHSUD in the whole . with the DHSUD-4A. Prior his designation, he briefly is no stranger to housing and urban activities of the department’s legal service, which The head of DHSUD’s Regional Office 2 is a licensed served as the Assistant Bureau Chief development matters as he had served with is in-charge of legal matters, including reviewing Civil Engineer and Environmental Planner the former Housing and Urban Development of the Housing and Real Estate Development documents and contracts, regulatory requirements with more than 30 years of experience Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Regulation Bureau at DHSUD Central Office. and intellectual property rights, among others. in developmental planning, much of which had been in various capacities since 1996. He is a lawyer who spent 23 years, Prior to his post, he had served as a legal consultant spent with the planning office of the local Prior to his new position, DATC served as the Head both in private law practice and government service. to numerous public and private offices, including in government of City. of Legal Service and concurrently the Project He had been a faculty member of his alma mater congressional and local government offices. Director Cayat was elected as a member of the Director of the National Drive Against Professional Ateneo de Naga University and a legal officer of the national board of the Philippine Institute of Civil Squatters and Squatting Syndicates He had been a partner with the DOTBE Law Office Department of Public Works and Highways in Region 5. Engineers, Inc. (PICE) in 2017, with the HUDCC. in Quezon City. Atty. Tezon earned his preparatory Prior to his appointment ARD Brazil is the Chairman of Kusog where she also held various positions in PICE’s Aside from being a lawyer, DATC is also a licensed law, political science, with University of the Bikolandia (KB), a regional political party that aligns its political Baguio chapter over the years. civil engineer and environmental planner. Philippines, Visayas. agenda with urgent concerns affecting the . 6 7 COMMUNITY BUILDING DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 FEATURE DHSUD-SHDA PARTNERSHIP: Making history More localized housing eyed BY MARIAE FRANCESCA R. ACOSTA n November 19, 2020, the powerful Commission on Appoint- ments (CA) confirmed the appointment of Secretary Eduardo BY SANTIAGO F. DUCAY SHDA Executive Director ODel Rosario and put him on record as the first-ever head of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Faced with the challenge of addressing (DHSUD). the housing need of 6.57 million that was Secretary Del Rosario’s hard-earned confirmation had been borne by rapid urbanization and the meager months in the making after being tapped by President Rodrigo allocation for housing from the national Duterte to lead the DHSUD in January. budget, the DHSUD has forged a part- The housing czar’s pro-active leadership, acumen in the housing Secretary Del Rosario (left) and Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III give a thumbs up sign after nership with the Subdivision and Hous- sector and urban development, close engagement with the private the housing czar’s confirmation by the Commission on Appointment. ing Developers Association (SHDA), the sector whose representatives were present in every session as a Photo courtesy of Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau country’s leading organization of housing show of support, and commitment and dedication to the DHSUD’s Senator Tolentino, who chairs the Senate Committee on Urban developers, for the implementation of the mandate eventually won him the CA’s trust. Planning, Housing and Resettlement, moved for Secretary Del Rosa- local shelter plan LSP-initiated projects in In turn, Secretary Del Rosario expressed his gratitude to the CA rio’s appointment, which was seconded by Senator Go. Senator Go collaboration with local government units and to President Duterte for trusting him to handle the housing said that Secretary Del Rosario “will be able to perform the duty well (LGUs), with the end goal of augmenting portfolio. as head of the DHSUD.” The sentiment was echoed by Senator Villar housing production in the regions and in “I would like to thank President for his trust and who said that “I see no other person more qualified to be at the helm highly urbanized areas. SHDA Chairman Raphael B. Felix and SHDA President Rosie confidence in me. I would also like to express my gratitude to the of DHSUD than Secretary Del Rosario.” S. Tsai, lend their support to Secretary Del Rosario during his DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, confirmation by the Commission on Appointments. members of the CA. Rest assured that I will exert my best effort in Prior to his appointment as DHSUD chief, Secretary Del Rosario together with SHDA Chairman Raphael Photos courtesy of SHDA fulfilling my tasks as head of the housing department,” Secretary sat as chair of the former Housing and Urban Development Coordi- B. Felix and SHDA President Rosie S. Tsai Del Rosario said. “My confirmation will serve as a challenge for me nating Council from 2017 until its dissolution. launched and signed a Memorandum housing provisions of RA 7279, the Urban of intent to commit to the project; and to lead government efforts in bridging the country’s housing need Currently, he also leads 56 implementing agencies in rehabilita­ of Agreement (MOA) that will increase and Housing Development Act. demonstrate technical and administrative which is pegged to reach 6.5 million units by 2022,” he added. ting war-torn Marawi City as chair of the . housing production through the imple- The availability of socialized hous- capacity to undertake the project. Senators Francis Tolentino, Cynthia Villar and Christopher As DHSUD chief, Secretary Del Rosario has been pushing for a mentation of residential projects identified ing is key to tackling the country’s hous- Finally, both LGU and SHDA member “Bong” Go, who had manifested their support to Secretary Del closer collaboration with stakeholders, led an intensified campaign in the city or municipality’s LSP. ing need as it addresses the aspirations of must provide their own MOA to seal the Rosario at the beginning of the deliberation all expressed their confi- against real estate scammers and doubling efforts to broaden access The LSP, which is formulated by LGUs the majority of Filipino families to acquire partnership. dence in his ability to lead the DHSUD. to housing, especially underprivileged Filipinos. in coordination with the DHSUD, defines decent and affordable housing. To date, some 209 LGUs with approved a locality’s current and projected housing The MOA that aims to promote govern- LSP stand to benefit from the MOA. need with regard to the projected popula- ment and private sector partnership Since its signing, two city mayors tion growth as well as other factors. between the DHSUD, LGUs and SHDA have already expressed their intent to DHSUD leads shelter committee in ‘Build Back Better’ Task Force For its part, the SHDA will tap into its would only require an approved LSP, with partner with SHDA developers. Mayor BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR regional members to spearhead residen- a letter of intent coming from the mayor; Jerry Trenas of Iloilo City and Mayor tial projects. SHDA boasts of 179 members availability of government land for the resi- Evelio Leonardia of City have ollowing the onslaught of several typhoons The DHSUD, as the central housing authority provide housing financial assistance to 712,522 coming from eight regions and 32 affi­liate dential project; and current or future exis- manifested their intent and interest that wreaked havoc on various parts of in the country, had been tapped to lead the Task families in the Cordillera Administrative Region members aside from the 138 members tence of a local housing board. to participate in housing projects for Fthe country, the DHSUD played a pivotal Force’s Key Result Area 2 for Stronger Shelter and and in Regions 1, 2, 3, 4A and 5 whose homes based in Metro Manila. For participating SHDA members, they their targeted beneficiaries. Response role in the newly formed Task Force charged Resilient Settlement. Its main tasks are to facili- were either partially or totally damaged at the The LSP program is SHDA’s way of allow- must have a regional presence or have from SHDA developers to strengthen the rehabilitation and recovery tate the relocation of poor households exposed to height of Typhoon Ulysses. ing members’ compliance to the balanced previous projects in the locality; a letter followed suit. efforts in calamity-stricken areas and help ease climate change-related hazards and oversee the The Department of Interior and Local public burden, particularly on housing-related construction of safe evacuation facilities. Government, National Economic Development woes. For its initial assessment, DHSUD Secretary Authority, Department of Budget and Manage- Movers lift a crib and other Called the Build Back Better Task Force (BBB), Eduardo Del Rosario reported to the Task Force of ment, National Housing Authority, Land Regis- Resettlement of affected families furniture to a truck that would take their owners this multi-agency committee, co-chaired by the its efforts in identifying and validating destroyed tration Authority, Department of Social Welfare in Luzon railway projects underway away from homes along Department of Environment and Natural Resources homes at the height of Typhoons Rolly and Ulysees. and Development, Local Water Utilities Admin- the railway tracks to a and the Department of Public Works and Highways, He likewise mentioned the status of the Emer- istration, National Electrification Administration brand new housing unit he relocation of families affected by the ambitious in Disiplina Village Bignay was created to address current and future disas- gency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP), and the DENR are the members of the Stronger 1,332-kilometer Luzon Master Railway Plan has started in Valenzuela City on ter risk reduction and management challenges stating that more than ₱27-million had been Shelter and Resilient Resettlement Committee. November 19, 2020. Tas the government pursues its project to interconnect key through a high-level institutional platform and a disbursed to 2,725 beneficiaries in typhoon- The BBB shall complement the National Disas- areas in Luzon by way of a railway system. more permanent body that will allow sustained and hit areas in Regions 4A and 4B, while figures for ter Risk Reduction and Management Council and Photo taken by integrated efforts, with a clear unity of command, Region 5 including in Catanduanes, which was the aims to establish more resilient communities Story continued on PAGE 10 Mary Lyn M. Bosogon during a typhoon’s post-disaster recovery and hardest-hit by Typhoon Rolly, were being finalized. around the country, as well as further bolster rehabilitation phase. In addition, ₱697.6-million will be needed to LGUs’ disaster-preparedness programs. 8 9 MONEY MATTERS DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 MONEY MATTERS NHMFC’s BALAI BERDE: Shared responsibility for sustainable future Pag-IBIG @ 40: BY PRINCESS RIZZA ONG AND AIREEN B. OGRIMEN Building a more The BALAI BERDE Program Natural Disaster Resiliency aims to promote sustainable sustainable future is a housing development in safe More aid to members rolled out and secure communities. shared responsibility BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR by both the government “Under Bayanihan 1, we granted a grace period to 4.77 million The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or borrowers and approved nearly 300,000 applications under our and private sectors. three-month payment moratorium program. And now, this added Pag-IBIG Fund continues to touch Filipino lives grace period and our Special Housing Restructuring Program will With this belief, the National Home Mortgage by staying true to its commitment of providing help our member-borrowers — especially those who are currently Finance Corporation (NHMFC), for its part, engi- Climate Energy Change Efficiency quality public service “from the heart.” experiencing financial difficulties — even more,” the Pag-IBIG Fund neered a new innovative program to serve as a CEO said. He called on members who have the means to continue liquidity facility for housing loan originators who paying their loan payments for the fund to keep on offering loans at design, develop and finance new and existing BALAI BERDE TOXI ON C From implementing key measures to aid members in minimizing low interest rates. green building or housing projects. These green N the ill effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to In addition to the SHLRP, Department of Human Settlements and projects will be purchased by the corporation to providing assistance to those affected by recent typhoons, Pag-IBIG Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, who form part of its new asset pool to issue its very first NON TOXIC N IC Fund is indeed sending all of its love to the needy. chairs the Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees, disclosed in September green bond. ON TOX th Celebrating its 40 Anniversary, the Pag-IBIG Fund highlighted of a two-month grace period on all loan payments, which was in line This is now the BALAI BERDE Program which was Water Efficiency and Green Materials its key achievements for 2020 despite challenges brought about by with the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or the Bayanihan 2. This recently approved by the NHMFC Board of Directors Conservation and Resources the pandemic. includes Pag-IBIG Fund’s Multi-Purpose Loan, Calamity Loan, and chaired by DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario. Pag-IBIG Fund officials cited accomplishments and recognized Housing Loan whose due falls from September 15 until November 14 The BALAI BERDE is the first of its kind among the Key partners and stakeholders during the first virtual Stakeholders this year, providing borrowers’ payment reprieve without incurring Shelter Agencies (KSAs) under DHSUD. This new finan- Sustainability Accomplishment Report held in November. any penalty and interest on interest. cial instrument is designed to increase capital alloca- One of the Fund’s most significant achievements for 2020 is its Secretary Del Rosario said these measures are in response to tions for green projects that contribute to environ­mental gross income of ₱32.56-billion during the January to September President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for government agencies to extend sustainability and resiliency to climate change and natu- period, wherein it likewise raked in a profit of ₱21.6-billion. For cash assistance to the public who are suffering from financial constraints ral disasters. It aims to promote sustainable housing loans, Pag-IBIG Fund rolled out ₱26.02-billion and reached out to caused by the pandemic. development and a higher quality of community life 1.27 million borrowers. Housing loans, meanwhile, hit ₱36.43-billion, Meanwhile, over 226,000 members affected by recent calamities while contributing to the local economy and preserving The program benefiting 35,938 borrowers. are eligible to borrow some ₱4.4-billion in calamity loans. Members the environment. Specifically, the program encourages name BALAI BERDE These numbers were achieved by the agency with the help of its can borrow up to 80% of their total Pag-IBIG Regular Savings through the use of energy efficiency, water conservation devices, was conceptual- partner-stakeholders. the Calamity Loan Program, which they can avail within three and low carbon materials sourced locally, in housing or ized under Pres- HDMF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Acmad Rizaldy Moti months from the declaration of a state of calamity in their areas. building construction. i d e n t R o d r i g o announced the introduction of the Special Housing Loan Restruc- Currently, Pag-IBIG Fund offers the lowest rate in the market with BALAI BERDE also caters to originators who rebuild or Duterte’s BALAI turing Program (SHLRP) that provides assistance to housing loan 5.95% per annum that is payable over a two-year period, with the retrofit existing housing units to make it more resilient to Housing Program borrowers whose properties are facing foreclosures due to non-pay- first payment being deferred and initial payment starts on the third climate change hazards and natural disasters, especially which was formally ment. Members suffering from financial woes brought about by the month following the release of the loan. in known vulnerable areas. launched on 18 Octo- pandemic can renegotiate the terms of their loan and secure a more Secretary Del Rosario disclosed that Pag-IBIG Fund had disbursed “NHMFC upholds the continuing development of rele- ber 2017 where the KSAs affordable payment term. ₱3.84-billion worth of calamity loans so far this year. Beneficiaries, vant housing finance programs that are pro-environ- committed to engage in build- NHMFC President Felixberto Bustos “After our string ‘best year ever,’ this is the time he noted, number 301,391 members who have been adversely ment,” Secretary Del Rosario said. ing sustainable Filipino communities. (right) awards for Pag-IBIG to show how much we care about our affected by recent calamities such as the Taal Volcano erup- “This BALAI BERDE Program, while aligning its busi- Under this program, direct housing production, hous- a check to member-borrowers,” CEO Moti stressed, noting that tion as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. ness strategy for the development of the secondary ing loans, mortgage programs, land registrations and beneficiaries. borrowers were able to apply for the restructuring mortgage market, also ensures consistency with and other various housing assistance shall be branded as Photo courtesy program through the Virtual Pag-IBIG until Decem- contributes to the Philippine Development Plan 2017- “BALAI,” which stands for Building Adequate, Livable, of NHMFC ber 15, 2020. 2022, the Philippine’s Nationally Determined Contri- Affordable and Inclusive (BALAI) Filipino Commu- bution framework, the AmBisyon Natin 2040 vision, the nities. BERDE stands for Building Eligible, Resil- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the ient Dwelling for Everyone. Hence, the BALAI BERDE Rising Above Challenges through Paris Climate Agreement,” he added. Program is born. Grit, Resilience and Commitment to Serve 10 11 MONEY MATTERS DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 MONEY MATTERS

SHFC’s flagship CMP turns 32 MONTH-LONG ACTIVITIES HIGHLIGHT ACCOMPLISHMENTS

BY ALLAN LEANDRO D.A. MERIN

he Social Housing Finance Corpo- The CMP, which is touted as the of bayanihan and solidarity, including ration (SHFC) marked the 32nd most innovative and responsive govern- the agency’s donation drive for medical Tanniversary of its flagship initia- ment housing program in the coun- frontline workers, distribution of finan- tive, the Community Mortgage Program try, has enabled a total of 361,208 cial assistance to partner-homeowners (CMP), throughout the month of August households across the country through belonging to the vulnerable sector, and to commemorate the more than three over ₱16.76-billion in loan assistance as efforts of CMP communities in Bacoor and decades of delivering safe, decent and of July 2020 to purchase the land they Pasig cities were highlighted in the virtual affordable shelter. occupy or land selected for their relocation. exhibit. With the theme “SHFC’s reliability To date, SHFC has provided more The anniversary saw the signing of a On August 22, SHFC officials led the tatives of CMP projects in Magalang, SHFC hopes to launch more initiatives rolls on, bridging you to your homes so than 401,000 families with security of memorandum of understanding (MOU) groundbreaking of a project in the town Guagua, Mabalacat, San Fernando, and for stakeholders in the coming months. you can stay home,” this year’s celebration tenure, including beneficiaries of the High with the local government units (LGUs) of San Antonio in Quezon province. San Floridablanca in Pampanga to ensure This includes distribution of livelihood highlighted the agency’s commitment to Density Housing Program and the Marawi of Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Arteche in Antonio Ville Homeowners’ Association that partner-homeowners are well- assistance to partner-homeowners who providing adequate housing in light of the Shelter Project. Eastern and Echague in Isabela. is one of the many communities that equipped with knowledge on effective lost their jobs or whose income were COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever Part of the month-long celebration The deals, inked through video confer- benefited from the CMP. The project, community organizing and manage- greatly affected by the pandemic and has this been more crucial with the entire featured an online photo exhibit show- encing technology, are expected to benefit once completed, will provide permanent ment. Webinars on various SHFC financial aid to those included in the nation fighting to contain the spread of casing the efforts made by SHFC for its more than 5,000 families. SHFC has part- shelter to more than 1,000 families. programs were also conducted for asso- vulnerable sector such as single parents, the COVID-19 virus which spread fast in stakeholders to ease the impact of the nered with about 100 LGUs for the imple- A series of online capacity building ciations from Daet, Camarines Norte and pregnant women, and persons with congested informal settlements. pandemic. Portraits capturing the spirit mentation of the CMP. workshops were also held for represen- Calapan, Mindoro. disabilities.

Resettlement of affected families... | From page 6

The Luzon railway project is part of the Human Settlements and Urban Development The department is also responsible for coor- gon, the Light Railway Transit Line 1 Cavite Exten- private organizations that will help fund the proj- Duterte administration’s “Build, Build, Build” (DHSUD) has been tapped to take charge of dinating with concerned local government units sion Project and the 30-kilometer Metro Manila ects, including the Asian Development Bank and program and is envisioned to boost trade and the resettlement of families that are and will (LGUs) and reactivating their respective Resettle- Subway Project. the Japan International Cooperation Agency. transport by linking the nation’s capital with be affected by the project through a Memo- ment Action Plans. Maintaining a beneficiaries’ So far, the RIC Project Management Office The DHSUD has supported SHFC’s community regional hubs within the country’s largest randum of Agreement among the three agen- database, ensuring the implementation of liveli- led by Project Director Mylene Rivera, who also assemblies that identify and facilitate the collec- island. cies. hood and income restoration programs for Project serves as DHSUD’s Planning Service OIC-Director, tion of information of PAPs. This forms part of the It is expected to boost the national The DHSUD will act as the project’s Affected Persons (PAPs) are also among DHSUD’s has been active in carrying out consultations with process in building a master list of those who will eco ­nomy, create jobs and enhance the coun- Resettlement Implementation Coordinator roles as RIC. concerned LGUs in relation to policy and regu­ be resettled because of the project. try’s investment climate, paving the way for (RIC) which will perform and provide policy Among the projects under the Master Railway lation implementation, particularly in ensuring the Only recently, the department helped in facil- inclusive growth. direction, coordination, supervision and Plan covered by DHSUD are the 147-kilometer smooth resettlement of PAPs. Project Implemen- itating the relocation of nine affected families. As Resettlement Implementation Coordinator of the North-South Commuter While the Department of Transpor- facilitation, as well as evaluation of resettle- North-South Commuter Railway that runs from tation and Coordination Group head Mary Ann Poli- They were among the first batches of beneficiaries Railway-Extension Project, the DHSUD holds a community assembly for tation (DOTr) and the Philippine National ment-related activities carried out through Clark, Pampanga to Calamba, Laguna. The DHSUD carpio is overseeing the project implementation on resettled to new housing units in Disiplina Village identified affected families in Barangay San Vicente, Biñan, Laguna on November 7, 2020. Railways (PNR) takes the lead role in tack- the National Housing Authority and the Social is also involved in the implementation of the South the ground, leading DHSUD’s effort in coordinating Bignay in Valenzuela City after leaving their homes Photo taken by Mary Lyn M. Bosogon ling this massive task, the Department of Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC). Long Haul, which stretches from Laguna to Sorso- with involved LGUs, government agencies and along the train tracks. — Christian V. Cabajar 12 NATIONAL SHELTER MONTH SPECIAL 13 DECEMBER 2020 ON NATIONAL SHELTER MONTH DHSUD intensifies campaign Celebrating vs real estate scammers s part of the National Shelter Month, The move was prompted by reports about the Department of Human Settlements and proliferation of illegal selling activities by unre­ AUrban Development Secretary Eduardo Del gistered developers and brokers in various parts shelter month Rosario launched an intensified campaign against of the country, with social media being used as a developers, brokers and salespersons involved channel for such unlawful acts. in illegal real estate development and selling of Secretary Del Rosario ordered DHSUD’s 16 properties to unsuspecting buyers. Regional Offices to craft and launch their respective campaign against real estate scammers while direct- ing key officials in the Central Office to strengthen their partnership and collaboration with other government agencies, including the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in order to intensify the effort. Aside from tapping the support of private developers, Secretary Del Rosario also called for support from real estate brokers, whom he called as “vanguards” of the general public, legitimate developers and salespersons because of their role as intermediators in real estate transactions. According to the DHSUD chief, illegal projects posses many ill effects, including products of sub-standard qualities and even fraudulent titles or documents. On the other hand, unregistered BY MARIAE FRANCESCA R. ACOSTA brokers and salespersons deprive legitimate n October, the entire nation came DHSUD’s Central Office and on the In addition, the DHSUD’s Commu- salespersons of their livelihood. together to celebrate the National the agency’s website and social media nications Division, in coordination Secretary Del Rosario urged the public to IShelter Month (NCM) in recogni- accounts, followed by Secretary Del with the Housing and Real Estate immediately report to the department and to tion of the housing sector’s vital role in Rosario’s virtual message. Development Regulation Bureau local government units any bogus real estate and the overall development of the country The housing czar also led the and Homeowners Association and housing project. and in the enhancement of the social, launching of an intensified campaign Community Development Bureau, “We must report scammers. We must report economic and spiritual well-being against real estate scammers and released #BALAI101, a series of gra­ illegal construction of any housing project, and of Filipinos, which has been made ordered all of DHSUD’s Regional phics published via the department’s we must report brokers and salespersons with- especially poignant as homes become Offices (RO) to run after unscrupulous official social media accounts to raise out license or permit to be brokers or sales­ primary refuge amid the coronavirus developers and real estate brokers and public awareness on the dif­ferent persons,” Secretary Del Rosario said. pandemic. agents engaged in the illegal selling of housing regulations and aid in recog- The DHSUD has regulatory powers over real As such, the Department of Human real estate properties. (Story on next nizing warning signs when pur­ estate developers and brokers, and salespersons Settlements and Urban Development page) chasing a property, among others. are obliged to register with the DHSUD before (DHSUD), which is the lead hous- In response, DHSUD’s ROs rose to The department also participated engaging in property selling. ing agency in the country, chose the the challenge by coming up with their in various online fora. The DHSUD issues a Certificate of Registration theme “Ensuring resilient homes and own respective campaigns, inclu­ding Finally, on October 29, the inter- and License to Sell to ensure that properties that sustainable communities for a better establishing a closer coordination agency National Human Settlements are being developed and sold are compliant with normal” for 2020. with LGUs and the private sector, and Board, where the DHSUD sits as chair, government issued requirements and standards. “As we spend more time in homes disseminating Secretary Del Rosario’s met virtually for its inaugural meet- —Mariae Francesca R. Acosta as an effect of the extended quar- own “DREAM” tips when purchasing ing. antine, we now see the necessity of a property. “October is our month to celebrate Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario’s having safe and resilient shelters and Notably, four suspected real estate shelter. It is our opportunity to strive “DREAM” tips serve as a guide to aid potential buyers when sustainable communities which serve scammers or “kolorums” in Cavite harder in performing our mandate purchasing a property. as havens against natural and health had been nabbed through the joint of providing decent, affordable, resil- Illustrations created by hazards,” DHSUD Secretary Eduardo efforts of DHSUD-4A and the National ient homes and sustainable commu- Glory M. Duller Del Rosario said. Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Simi- nities to 81% of Filipino families who and MFRA To kick off this year’s festivities was lar entrapment operations were also continue to dream of having houses of an unveiling of NSM’s banner at the poised around the counrty. their own,” Secretary Del Rosario said. 14 HIGHLIGHT DECEMBER 2020

BY: CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR All hands on deck, synergy up

hile the Department of Human Settlements and NHSB’S ‘BACKBONE’ participation of stakeholders’ representatives as observ- The activation of the Urban Development (DHSUD) manages housing, lready during its inaugural meeting on October 29 ers and non-voting members. Likewise, it mandates the Whuman settlement and urban development and this year, the board approved three resolutions that creation of a Technical Working Committee (TWC). exercises administrative supervision over policy and program Atargeted the development of more resilient and NHSB Resolution No. 2020-02 provides for the creation National Human coordination, monitoring and evaluation of Key Shelter Agen- sustainable housing communities across the country. of a TWC to assist the NSHB in the review of policy and cies (KSAs), it is the NHSB which determines the overall policy NHSB member-agencies got off to a flying start by appro­ program. The TWC is composed of representatives from direction of the KSAs and advisor on its plans and programs. ving the Internal Rules of the National Human Settlements member departments and attached agencies of NHSB and Settlements Board DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario called the board’s Board (NHSB Resolution No. 2020-01), the Creation of the concerned bureaus and services of DHSUD. It also provides formal establishment a breakthrough not only for the National Human Settlements Board Technical Working a venue for the participation of stakeholders’ representatives (NHSB), a housing department, but the housing sector as a whole. Committee (NHSB Resolution No. 2020-02) and the Guide- from various sectors. “After more than a year since the promulgation of the lines and Procedures for the Nomination of Stakeholders’ Finally, NHSB Resolution No. 2020-03 outlines the DHSUD Act, we reached another milestone in our journey Representatives to the National Human Settlements Board guidelines and procedures for the nomination, selection, “super body,” heralded — the formal establishment of the NHSB. We are given a Technical Working Committee (NHSB Resolution No. and appointment of stakeholders’ representatives to the challenging task of providing overall policy direction and 2020-03). TWC. It sets the criteria for screening of nominees and iden- program development guidance to our attached corp­ “Having established these three resolutions will serve as tifies the relevant sectors that must be represented, such as a new era in the housing orations and agencies in managing housing and urban NHSB’s backbone and ensure that all proposals put forward private real estate developers, academe, federation of home- development in the entire country,” said the housing czar, would have been studied thoroughly and have the corre- owners’ associations and Civil Society Organizations or who also chairs the NHSB. sponding support and represented by various stakeholders People’s Organizations. and urban development Through the NHSB, the public can expect better-planned in the housing sector,” Secretary Del Rosario said. The NHSB, formed in line with DHSUD’s mandate and implemented housing and community projects through NHSB Resolution No. 2020-01 establishes the rules that under Republic Act 11201 in ensuring the alignment of poli- integrated and well-rounded policies for a more vibrant govern the affairs of the Board and sets the procedures rela­ cies, programs and projects of its attached agencies, acts as of the country. housing and urban development sector. ting to the execution of its meetings. It also provides for the the single policy-making body that provides overall policy 16 HIGHLIGHT DECEMBER 2020

I know that we will encounter a lot of challenges along the way, but I am optimistic that with your help, we will be able to provide NHSB:NHSB: HOUSINGHOUSING better service to our people. There is so much work to be done: the realization of every Filipino’s dream of living in decent, safe, resilient and well-planned communities rests on our shoulders. Eduardo D. Del Rosario ‘SUPER‘SUPER BODY’BODY’ DHSUD Secretary

direction and program meant to attain the department’s country’s housing concerns, top of which is the ballooning goal of providing more resilient, sustainable and affordable housing gap, will be better addressed. housing communities to Filipinos, especially the underpri­ “As we pursue this endeavor and adapt to the require- vileged. ments of the “new normal,” I would like to request your Aside from DHSUD’s KSAs, namely Home Development support and cooperation so we can achieve synergy as we Mutual Fund (HDMF or Pag-IBIG Fund), National Housing seek to ensure alignment and policies to our new programs,” Authority (NHA), National Home Mortgage Finance Corpo- Secretary Del Rosario noted. ration (NHMFC) and Social Housing Finance Corporation The housing czar highlighted the need for the synchro- (SHFC), the NHSB also has the Departments of Finance nization of planning and implementation of programs and (DOF), the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Budget projects of national government agencies and local govern- and Management (DBM), Public Works and Highways ment units, as well as the private sector, to pave the way for (DPWH) and the National Economic Development Author- the development of towns and cities across the country. ity (NEDA) as members. “I know that we will encounter a lot of challenges along the way, but I am optimistic that with your help, we will be BASIC NEED able to provide better service to our people. There is so much uring its inaugural meeting, Senator Francis Tolen- work to be done: the realization of every Filipino’s dream tino, chair of the Senate’s Committee on Urban of living in decent, safe, resilient and well-planned com­ DPlanning, Housing and Resettlement, delivered munities rests on our shoulders,” Secretary Del Rosario said. the keynote address and administered the oath to NHSB members. 2021 AGENDA In his message, Senator Tolentino stated that shelter is ext year will prove to be a busy year for the NHSB. one of man’s basic needs, especially now that the country is For 2021, the board will turn its focus on pressing facing a pandemic. Nhousing concerns made even more challenging by “Shelter is very essential to human survival as water and the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, food, thus the need to establish a decent housing for the which necessitates adoption to the requirements of the “new people is an imperative for the government to fulfill,” Sena- normal,” and the onslaught of successive typhoons that tor Tolentino said. “In the fulfillment of this crucial goal, the totally or partially damaged homes by thousands in the DHSUD plays an indispensable role in collaborating with latter part of the year. the national government and other stakeholders, even the Among the NHSB’s agenda would be the approval of private sector.” the National Housing and Urban Development Sector Plan Also present in the virtual meeting were DILG Secretary or the 20-year roadmap for the housing and urban deve­ Eduardo Año, NEDA Secretary Karl Chua, DOF Undersecre- lopment sector. The roadmap is a consolidation of the short, tary Grace Karen Singson, DBM Undersecretary medium and long term strategies, plans, and programs of and DPWH Undersecretary Eduardo Ramos, among others. the DHSUD, KSAs and other stakeholders. Secretary Del Rosario expressed optimism that through It shall also operationalize the priorities and strat­egies the synchronized efforts among the NHSB members the contained in anchor frameworks, policies, and plans, such

Photo taken by Christian V. Cabajar 18 19 HIGHLIGHT DECEMBER 2020 NHSB:NHSB: HOUSINGHOUSING ‘SUPER‘SUPER BODY’BODY’ as the Philippine New Urban Agenda, National Urban ities advocated meant to make housing more affordable National Human Settlements Board Development and Housing Framework, Philippine Devel- for low-income earners and provide more responsive shel- opment Plan 2017-2022, National Informal Settlement ter options for residents of Metro Manila and other highly Upgrading Strategy among others. urbanized cities. Another key agenda for next year will pursue policy The NHSB also intends to review the current price Sec. Eduardo D. Del Rosario reforms that will accelerate housing microfinance as the ceiling for socialized subdivisions and socialized condo- Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development primary pro-poor housing finance strategy in recognition minium projects; the loan ceiling for economic, low-cost of the need to provide and medium-cost housing; alternative housing and the possible extension of solutions to low-income the Rent Control Act due to households. expire in 2020. Sec. Carlos G. Dominguez CEO Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti An ongoing project Shelter is very essential The housing czar earlier Department of Finance Home Development Mutual Fund with the Asian Devel- to human survival as called for a more concerted opment Bank seeks to effort in managing housing conduct an assessment water and food, thus the and urban development in of microfinance for need to establish a decent the country, especially as housing and analysis the country grapples with Sec. Wendel E. Avisado Gen. Mngr. Marcelino P. between affordability the adverse impact of the Escalada, Jr. housing for the people Department of Budget and Management National Housing Authority level and estimated cost COVID ‑19 pandemic, which of climate and disas- is an imperative for the had exposed the vulnerability ter resilient housing government to fulfill.” of towns and cities, hence the designs. The project has need for synchronization of the following compo- Francis Tolentino, efforts in aligning policies and nents: rapid assessment Senator programs related to the hous- Sec. Karl T. Chua Pres. Felixberto M. Bustos, Jr. of housing microfinance ing sector. National Economic Development Authority National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation projects and programs; “The harmonized effort, updating of the Housing synchronized planning and Microfinance Product implementation of programs Manual; and Capability Building Program Design. and projects of national government agencies, local govern- The NHSB is also looking to establish a national policy ment units, and the private sector will significantly impact Sec. Mark A. Villar Pres. Arnolfo B. Cabling on the Housing Minimum Standard Space Per Person, or the way towns and cities develop towards a more efficient Department of Public Works and Highways Social Housing Finance Corporation similar regulation and measures such as the setting the and sustainable urban development,” Secretary Del Rosario minimum number of rooms per housing unit. This will said. aid in achieving effective physical distancing and allow for “And thus result in better service to our people towards possible areas for quarantine to avoid crowding and respond the realization of every Filipino’s dream of living in decent, to the “new normal” requirements brought about by the safe, resilient and well-planned communities and attain- Sec. Eduardo M. Año Exec. Comm. Melzar P. Galicia COVID-19 pandemic. ment of our societal goals under AmBisyon Natin 2040,” he Human Settlements Department of the Interior and Local Government Adjudication Commission The housing “super body” will look into the adoption of added. a Public Rental Housing Policy or the Balai Rental Housing The NHSB will reconvene on January 28, 2021 and shall Program. It is one of the innovative housing finance modal- meet every quarter. —­ with MFRA

Photos from various sources, including official websites of above agencies. 20 FROM THE REGIONS 21 FROM THE REGIONS DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020

DHSUD-11 DHSUD-CAR welcomes Part of its efforts to run after real estate scammers, DHSUD-11 conducts a consultative meeting with City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat and the City Councilors of Mati City, Davao Oriental to discuss Zoning Ordinance and preventive measures to address lots being sold without appropriate chief after CA’s nod government related permits within their locality. Legal assistance is also BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Human RD Amoroso, who herself has recently been extended to victims of Settlements and Urban Development Regional appointed by Malacañang to the position of a unregistered or unlicensed Office-Cordillera Administrative Region director, also expressed gratitude to the secretary subdivision developers. Photos courtesy (DHSUD-CAR) had the distinct honor of being during the informal discussion. of DHSUD-11 the first Regional Office (RO) to be visited by “Our heartfelt gratitude [at] being the first Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario right after his Regional Office [to be] visited by the first confirmation by the powerful Commission on DHSUD Secretary,” RD Amoroso said in a Appointments. Facebook post. The visit to DHSUD’s Baguio office followed “It marks the first page in writing the History Secretary Del Rosario’s confirmation by the CA, of DHSUD-CAR. Indeed, we are blessed,” she which officially made him as the first-ever chief added. Personnel of DHSUD-CAR, of the DHSUD. Secretary Del Rosario went to Baguio City led by Regional Director Personnel of DHSUD-CAR, led by Regional following his confirmation after receiving an Maria Amoroso, greet DHSUD-3 Director (RD) Maria Amoroso, gave Secretary Del invitation from Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Secretary Eduardo Del From scheme to reality, DHSUD-3’s Rosario during his visit. office is nearing completion. Rosario a quick tour of the RO before briefing him Magalong and organizers of a smart digital expo Photo taken by Mario J. Mallari Photo courtesy of DHSUD-3 of the current initiatives being done in the region. to deliver a keynote message. — ­MFRA DHSUD-8 conducts assessment on the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program

BY CAMILLE LELINA RECOMMENDATIONS It was also recommended that the LGUs concerned egardless of the numerous challenges faced, NHA-8 took should conduct an inventory of unoccupied units and issue TACLOBAN CITY ­— The DHSUD Regional Office 8 (DHSUD-8) recently and Southern Leyte), and 49.21% in Samar II Group (2nd and 3rd District of action to address the identified issues in coordination with corresponding notice to beneficiaries. Unclaimed units will led an assessment of the Yolanda Permanent Housing Program (YPHP) Samar). Overall, 35,868 or 67.23% have already been completed out of Rdifferent national agencies as well as the LGU. otherwise be awarded to other qualified beneficiaries. Upon of the National Housing Authority Region 8 (NHA-8), which aimed to the 53,348 total number of housing units in the entire region. In a series of meetings, the NHA-8, headed by its Regional occupancy, any minor defect in the unit shall be rectified by the address the shelter needs of survivors of the super typhoon that devas- For project occupancy, out of the 35,868 completed units, 20,909 Manager Engr. Constancio Atieniero, and DHSUD-8, headed by OIC developer through the NHA. This will ensure that the housing tated the region in 2013. or 58.29% are occupied by beneficiaries while 14,959 or 41.71% of the Regional Director Engr. Evelyn A. Bobier agreed on several recom- units are acceptable to the beneficiaries in terms of livability. The move came after the Regional Development Council - Eastern units are ready for occupancy. mendations. Furthermore, the identification of beneficiaries and sched- Visayas passed a resolution requesting the DHSUD-8 to conduct an assess- After gathering updated figures, DHSUD-8 then proceeded to conduct On the issue of the suitability of the resettlement sites, the NHA ule of draw lots for beneficiary selection should be done prior ment of the YPHP. The resolution stemmed from the February 2020 status site inspection and interview of beneficiaries to verify the report. Upon will consult with the LGU’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the to the construction of housing units so that target beneficiaries report of the NHA which revealed that only 67% (35,480) of the 53,085 review, DHSUD-8 found that the low occupancy rate was primarily due to Local Shelter Plan (LSP) to gain insight on a potential site’s climate can personally monitor the progress of the construction. housing units under the original program had been completed, while only the lack of a water supply to the relocation site. Beneficiaries refused relo- and disaster related risks. It was also recommended that prior to This coordination between the NHA-8 and DHSUD-8 mani- 19 out of 11,234 units under the additional YPHP had been completed. cation because there was no water except for a temporary provision made selection, it is imperative to ensure that properties are titled and free fests the strong partnership in addressing the issues identi- The assessment shed light on the underlying factors that contrib- by the developer in coordination with the LGUs (Local government units). or clear of all claims, liens, charges and encumbrances. In addition, fied in the implementation of the YPHP in . The uted to the low production rate of the YPHP and gave recommendations Beneficiaries also lament the lack of public transportation networks and it should be within a residential zone to make sure there will be no two agencies are optimistic that the recommendations to expedite and improve its implementation. The findings will also livelihood opportunities in the resettlement sites. They also expressed prohibitions to the development of a housing project. Also, the project will significantly improve the project’s implementation be used to formulate policy recommendations for plan- concern over a prevailing stigma that accompanies relocation to a new sites should be adjacent to adequate water source. In the absence of towards its speedy completion so that the ning or designing future resettlement programs. community. a water source near the project site, the LGU concerned should coor- beneficiaries will have a safe and livable Aside from these issues, NHA-8 also identified challenges in imple- dinate with the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) as part community. STATUS menting the program. Among the challenges encountered were: (1) of their main obligation to all Yolanda permanent housing projects, rom July to August, DHSUD-8 closely coor- offered properties for socialized housing sites were untitled or titled as pronounced by the President and in compliance to their mandate. dinated with NHA-8 to gather updates on the lots were limited; (2) high raw land cost; (3) shortage of available Moreover, to ensure that there will be a source of livelihood for the Beneficiaries cite Fstatus of the various YPHP Projects in the region. skilled manpower within the area; (4) inflation cost of construction beneficiaries, there should be livelihood programs in the area in coordi- the lack of a water Based on NHA-8’s August 2020 Status Report, logistics; (5) endorsed site/s is/are not physically suitable for hous- nation with the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Labor source as a reason for refusing to transfer to 78.89% of the projects are completed in Leyte ing; and (6) identified site/s were covered by Department of Agrarian and Employment, Technical Education and Skills Development Author- the relocation site. I Group (1st to 3rd District of Leyte and Biliran), Reform Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program or Certificate of Land ity, Department of Agriculture and Department of Social Welfare and Photos courtesy th th 37.64% in Leyte II Group (4 to 5 District of Leyte Ownership Awards, among others. Development. of DHSUD-8 22 23 FROM THE REGIONS DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 FROM THE REGIONS DHSUD-NCR holds SIKAT Project: Creating positive virtual HOA orientation impact on real estate recovery BY NINI GO SANCHEZ BY JESHA ABESAMIS CALAMBA CITY ­— As the country reels towards sons on the Revised Implementing Rules and Aside from online seminars, in-person orienta- recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 Regulations for Sellers, Brokers, and Salesmen tions and seminars were conducted prior to nation- QUEZON CITY – The Department of Human Settle- creation of environmental protection commit- pandemic, the Housing and Real Estate Devel- and Guidelines for Advertisement. Three of these wide lockdowns at DHSUD-4A’s office in Calamba, ments and Urban Development (DHSUD) National tees in their respective communities, which is also opment Regulatory Division (HREDRD) of DHSUD virtual events were conducted in August and Laguna with more or less 70 participants from Capital Regional Office (DHSUD-NCR) held a virtual mandated by RA 9904. Regional Office 4A (DHSUD-4A) remains upbeat September this year and attended by more than developers all over . orientation on Republic Act (RA) No. 9904, otherwise Aside from RA 9904, the orientation also touched that the sector will continue to move forward 400 real estate service practitioners. known as the Magna Carta for Homeowners and upon RA 11201, or the law which created the DHSUD. through the support and active participation of Queries and concerns from the attendees were Homeowners’ Associations as a safety and precau- “During orientation, participants or home­owners stakeholders to the DHSUD’S programs and proj- clarified and discussed by the head of HREDRD-4A tionary measure against the spread of the coronavi- ask us questions, such as what the Department is, ects through the SIKAT (Sila, Ikaw, Ako at Tayo) Engr. Emmanuel Glipo, while RD Otero delivered rus disease 2019 (COVID-19). and how does it differ from HLURB. So we get the Project. inspirational messages to the participants. The RD RA 9904 mandated the DHSUD or another depu- chance to briefly explain RA 11201,” said Ma. Leah SIKAT Project is a brainchild of DHSUD-4A’s is always present at DHSUD-4A’s activities to show L. Salvatierra, OIC for DHSUD-NCR’s Homeowners tized competent agency to conduct free orientations Regional Director (RD), Atty. Jann Roby R. Otero, his support and willingness to listen to the needs Association and Community Development Division for officers and members of homeowners’ associa- which aims to engage stakeholders in the Depart- and concerns of the stakeholders. (HOACDD). tions (HOA). ment’s programs, projects and implementation of Participants of the webinars were members of DHSUD Secretary “It’s like an information drive on RA 11201 as well,” its mandates and create positive impact in the real local real estate boards under the Philippine Asso- Eduardo Del Rosario The virtual orientation focused on discussions on delivers his message she added. estate economy amid challenges brought about by ciation of Real Estate Boards, Inc., the country’s the salient features of RA 9904, such as Registration during a webinar The virtual orientation was well-received that the pandemic. largest national real estate organization formed organized by of HOAs, Federation and/or Confederation of HOAs many HOAs had requested to be scheduled for one. Among the activities lined up for SIKAT Proj- in 1960. They include the Calamba Real Estate DHSUD-4A. home ownership rights and duties and or respon- Since its implementation, the region has conducted ect were a series of webinars conducted by Board, Dasmarinas Real Estate Board and Batan- Photos taken sibilities of HOA members as well as officers of an by Christian a total of 15 virtual orientations with 296 participants. HREDRD-4A for dealers, brokers and salesper- gas City Real Estate Board. V. Cabajar association, and the rights and powers of an The initiative was among the recommendations association among others. discussed in the mid-year assessment meeting with A simple Climate and Disaster Risk key officials of DHSUD-NCR that utilized online plat- Challenge accepted Assessment (CDRA) workshop was forms for contactless transactions and continuous also added to guide HOAs in their efficient service to the public. ALAMBA CITY – Within the walls of the Department, it is known that the the first online event for HOA federations and confederations in the region enti- HOACDD is where the action is. During the past months, the operations tled “Kamustahan with the Secretary.” DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, Cand services in DHSUD-4A have been greatly affected by the pandemic. graced the event with an inspiring and encouraging message to all HOAs. He Face-to-face transactions and the conduct of orientations and meetings were stressed the significant impact of organizations in establishing partnerships. limited if not totally prohibited to put health and safety first. For the staff of “Kailangan po natin na gawin upang magkaroon tayo ng grassroot part- HOACDD especially, this has definitely been a trial — but, not an unwelcome one. ners in nation building. (We need to do this to gain grassroot partners in DHSUD-7 assists in census “Challenge is accepted,” they said! nation building). Organization is the key in everything we do and the govern- The HOACDD of DHSUD-4A takes advantage of every opportunity to ment cannot do it alone. We need all organizations, like HOAs federations and EBU CITY – In September 2020, with the In this regard, the DHSUD-7 coordinated connect and engage stakeholders in the different programs and projects of confederations,” Secretary Del Rosario said. Modified General Community Quarantine with all HOAs in the region for their partic- the Department in the midst of the quarantine. In fact, fresh and dynamic ideas The participants were also given time to share their experiences and contri- C(MGCQ) in place, the DHSUD Regional ipation by allowing PSA authorized repre- birthed from the challenges of coping in the “new normal” setting. bution to their communities and their respective LGUs in fighting COVID-19. Office 7 (DHSUD-7) resumed its “new normal” sentatives to hand out census materials to On June 9, 2020, the HOACDD-4A, through the support of RD Otero, hosted Around 30 HOA federations and confederations attended the event making it services. As border control points became less respective homeowners. The activity was the biggest virtual event hosted by the Regional Office so far. stern, the Department once again opened its conducted with utmost observance to the Encouraged by the Secretary’s words, more HOA and HOA federation doors for activities and projects. mandated quarantine protocols of the region. meetings followed: consultation meetings on the formation of HOA Federa- Significantly, one of the recent collabora- As of writing, partial yet successful turn- tion and Confederation in Rizal Province and Cabuyao in Laguna; and online tions of DHSUD was its cooperation with Philip- out was reported as responses were favorably Workshop and Writeshop participated by 44 HOAs and HOA Federations and pine Statistics Authority (PSA) in their conduct in line with the event’s objectives. PSA also Confederations from CALABARZON. of the 2020 Census of Population and Housing hoped to replicate the success of their 2015 (2020 CPH). The main objective of the exertion, census of population where the agency tallied which coincidentally also started in September a total of 2,938,982 million people in Cebu ONLINE EDUCATION LAUNCH 2020, was to provide government executives, province. n September, the HOACDD-4A led by their OIC Louie A. Odiamar and RD policy makers and planners with population “Despite the challenges of the Otero successfully launched the Homeowners’ Associations Online Educa- and housing data on which to base their social pandemic, 2020 CPH still thrives,” Felix- tion or HONE. HONE offers free webinars on the important features and A census staff distributes materials at Woodway Subdivision, I Pooc, Talisay City, Cebu. and economic development plans, policies and berto M. Sato, Senior Statistical Special- provisions from the IRR of RA 9904. The event was attended by around 40 DHSUD-4A holds the first-ever online HOA Federation Summit with Secretary Eduardo Del Photo courtesy of DHSUD-7 programs. ist of PSA said. ­— Ed Alain G. Aguelo Rosario. HOAs, HOA federations and confederations, including representatives from Photo courtesy of DHSUD-4A the private sector and developers.­ — Nini Go Sanchez 24 25 DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 FEATURE

MEDIA CORNER Home & Letters hroughout this COVID-19 pandemic ordeal, the DHSUD has done its best in trying to ease the DHSUD official strain caused by the community quarantine to the Filipino people. And somehow in the process he DHSUD had a busy semester indeed, judging by the number of stories that Tof performing our mandate, we have gotten some heart-warming gestures of gratitude. publication unveiled The Shelter has compiled some of the best messages we’ve received, and sharing them with were published by our media partners. Among the many highlights, beginning everyone. Tin July, the Philippine Daily Inquirer has invited Secretary Eduardo Del Rosa- TEXT AND PHOTO BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR rio for a bi-monthly column in its Property Section to lay out DHSUD’s mandates, policies, plans, programs, activities, for the housing and urban development sector. OSHDP (Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers) joins the housing and real estate industry in congratulating Secretary Eduardo Drueco Del Rosario (SEDDR) for his confirmation as the first head of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. The organization is optimistic that SEDDR will continue to work on fast-tracking the housing permitting processes as envisioned in the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act and consistent with our shared objective to ramp-up production of socialized housing for the low-income Filipino families. From all of us affordable housing developers in OSHDP, we also wish you happy, happy birthday!

Atty. Harrison M. Paltongan, President of Suntrust Properties, Inc. Ricardo D. Perido MAIDEN ISSUE: (From left) DHSUD Assistant Secretary Leira Buan, September 10, 2020 Sat. Dec. 12, 2020 at 8:47PM Office of the Undersecretary for Operations and Support Services We consider it a blessing that Sec. Del Rosario is the chief implementer of OIC Commissioner Marylin Pintor, Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario the housing vision of this country because from all of his pronouncements it would Good day po DHSUD Secretary and Mario J. Mallari unveil the maiden issue of The Shelter, the appear that he is not just a government regulator who is there to just issue cease EDUARDO DEL ROSARIO. Kami po rito department’s official publication. and desist orders on us developers, impose monetary fines. But he is actually, sa Town and Country West Molino 3, from his pronouncements it would appear, he is so concerned about the funding Bacoor, Cavite ay labis na nagagalak re you looking for informative, relevant and inte­ dahil kayo ang itinalaga ni Pangulong and production of all of these housing backlog. In fact, he took resting articles on the country’s housing sector? Duterte para pamunuan the pro-active steps to listen to organizations, developers. Search no more as The Shelter is finally here. I think this forum is one way to show that he wants to listen, to learn. In fact, ang DHSUD, A The official publication of the Department of Human Noel (Toti Cariño, National President of Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Mabuhay po kayo. Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) was offi­ Associations, Inc.) CREBA was here from CREBA, SHDA (Subdivision and Housing cially unveiled during a virtual forum spearheaded by no Developers Association, Inc.), OSHDP, NREA (National Real Estate Association) and other organizations. That is why we (Suntrust and its parent Megaworld less than Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario himself on July Apple Lantajo Llosa Corporation, and its affiliates and subsidiaries) are inspired to “toe the line” 29 this year. November 6, 2020 and we are committed to be with him in his quest for, as Organized by the DHSUD’s Communications Devel­ at 12:00PM opment and Media Relations team, the unveiling of the Toti mentioned, his elusive mission. Thank you sa replies (Thank -DURING THE MANILA TIMES PH HOUSING OUTLOOK “FOSTERING URBAN DEVELOPMENT” VIRTUAL FORUM you for your reply) ... Thank publication’s maiden issue was witnessed virtually by top officials from the Department’s Central and Regional Carlo M. Castillo Jr. you so much, it means a lot. November 8, 2020 at 9:04AM Lalo na na-depress ako ng Offices, Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs), partner-developers Mabuhay po kayo! Mabuti at maayos ang ilang days. (Especially as I and media partners via Zoom and streamed live via the pulong at relokasyon ng mga [PAP] (Project was depressed for a number Department’s official Facebook page. Affected Persons). (Cheers to you! The of days.) More power po and During the event, Secretary Del Rosario hailed the assembly and relocation of PAPs went well God bless! publication’s launch, saying the event marked a mile­ and orderly.) Photo attached is the Masantol - UPON INQUIRING ON HER stone for the Department. Relocation. Families along Sapang Maragul tagged by LGU (local government APPLICATION TO DHSUD “This (The Shelter) will contain all the accomplish­ units) and [PAP] by the ROW (Right-of-Way) of IDRR CCA Proj. (Integrated Disas- ments, policies, rules and regulations being formulated ter Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation Project). and crafted by the Department. Let us move forward and We’re given [a] new and safe community. Bryan Jadie support each other in making the housing industry more Photo taken by Marylyn M. Bosogon This project of LGU-Masantol was also reported to the office of Sec. Del Rosario October 27, 2020 for his information. We also asked for some assistance. Request was forwarded to Great. Easy to understand. vibrant and help it recover from the adverse effects of his office. Salamat po. (Thank you.) - ON THE TYPES OF LOTS INFOGRAPHIC COVID -19,” Secretary Del Rosario said. List of Issuances DHSUD Assistant Secretary Leira Buan and Office of To access the orders and guidelines, please visit our website dhsud.gov.ph the Undersecretary for Operations and Support Services Happy holidays OIC Commissioner Marylin Pintor were also present #2020-001 #2020-002 #2020-007 #2020-004 #2020-011 Christmas decor abound DHSUD’s Central Office during the launch. to usher in the festive season. The publication aims to serve as a platform for the Issuance of Provisional License to Suspension of Imposition of Penalty for Extending the Suspension of the Providing a Grace Period for Providing the Purchase of Asset- Photos taken by Mary Lyn M. Bosogon Sell and Various Certificates Late Renewal of Registration of Real Annotation Requirements Under HLURB Payment of Buyers Under Backed Securities as May Be DHSUD to further expand its reach to stakeholders in the Estate Brokers and Salesperson Resolution No. 993, Series of 2019 Installment or In-House Financing Issued by the National Home housing sector. For its maiden issue, The Shelter high­ Plans for the Purchase of Lots/Units Mortgage Finance Corporation #2020-005 #2020-009 #2020-010 in Subdivision and Condominium or Social Housing Finance lighted how the nation’s housing industry stayed afloat Projects and Other Similar Real Corporation as Full Compliance amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pande­ Estate Development Projects of Developers to the Balanced Guidelines for the Commencement or Revised Locational Guidelines Providing for Additional Time of Required to be Registered With the Housing Development Program, mic’s adverse impact to global and national economies. Completion for Projects Affected Resumption of Real Estate Business, for Base Stations and Other Department of Human Settlements Thereby Amending Section 4.5 of The Shelter will be published on a quarterly basis Development and Construction Infrastructure for Cellular Mobile by Stoppage of Development and and Urban Development During Board Resolution No. 965, Series Operations and Activities Covered by Telephone Service, Paging Service, Adoption of Emergency Measures the Period of the Declared State of of 2017 starting 2021 so the public can have a more vivid under­ the Department of Human Settlements Trunking Service, Wireless Local During The Community Quarantine National Emergency in Light of the standing on how the government is empowering the and Urban Development During the Loop Service and Other Wireless Periods COVID-19 Pandemic COVID-19 State of Public Health Communication Service housing sector. Emergency 26 27 BANGON MARAWI DECEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 2020 BANGON MARAWI

From ashes to progress | From page 28 Scenes from Marawi City’s rehabilitation (clockwise from top left): The Banggolo Bridge was destroyed government-led rehabilitation is completed “We cannot make Marawi rise again He said the government treats the repair Government officials, led by Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) Chairman during the siege. On the other hand, the Bato Marawi will become a modern and vibrant only through vertical infrastructure as it of mosques as a priority in order to promote Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (center), do the fist bump at the end of Mosque was among the 30 houses of Islamic Islamic city. won’t serve the purpose,” the TFBM chief social healing among the Maranaos who a forum where they listened the concerns aired by leaders of internally displaced persons (IDPs) staying at Sagonsongan Temporary Shelters on worship that were equally destroyed during During the commemoration of Marawi explained. were affected by the conflict. October 20, 2020. the five-month conflict. City’s liberation, he said the Task Force is “Non-infrastructure intervention is a The reconstruction of mosques will be Secretary Del Rosario (right) conducts an ocular inspection of the Masjid The Department of Public Works and committed to seeing the city’s full recovery very vital component of the rehabilitation carried out using donations from partner­ Disomangcop with Marawi Mayor Majul Gandamra on November 27, 2020. Highways led the reconstruction of the as he highlighted ongoing projects inside and in them we can see the requirements for developers in the housing sector, Secretary Kilos Kabataan Livelihood Foundation, Inc. Chairperson Kristin Bangot Banggolo Bridge, which the TFBM chair­ the MAA. social services, education, health and every- Del Rosario stated. (front, right) turns over tablets to Marawi City educators to boost an person said was completed “ahead of sched- The TFBM chief said Marawi’s rehabili- thing that cannot be quantified physically, The Dansalan Bato Ali Mosque and e-learning program among the Maranao youth with (back, from right) Secretary Del Rosario and Mayor Gandamra. ule.” tation comes in two parts — infrastructure but is very important to have a smooth and the Grand Mosque, two of the most iconic Mayor Gandamra reported the steady development and non-infrastructure inter- working society,” he added. Islamic houses of worship not only in An aerial view of Banggolo Bridge, an entry to Marawi City’s Most Affected Area (MAA), officially opens during the anniversary of Marawi’s Liberation. return of economic activities in Marawi’s vention. He stated that boosting e-learning in Marawi but in the entire country, are now “Less Affected Area,” indicating that the “Infrastructure development is basi- Marawi’s madrasahs can help the local also undergoing major refurbishments. Permanent shelters are being constructed for families living in danger zones near Lake Lanao and Agus River by the National Housing Authority government-led rehabilitation of the city is cally about building horizontal and vertical government address health concerns amid (NHA) in partnership with Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) and on track. projects, but it’s only about 30% of the total the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as fast-track UN Habitat. The construction of permanent shel- requirements of the rehabilitation,” Secre- the overall educational progress of Maranao OBJECTIVES An aerial view of shelters in Sagonsongan being constructed by the ters for internally displaced persons, road tary Del Rosario said during a signing of students. n rebuilding Marawi, the TFBM wants National Housing Authority (NHA). networks and public facilities such as the a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on to achieve three main objectives, and Workers conduct full scale works on Quezon Avenue in Marawi’s MAA. Grand Padian Market and 24 barangay e-learning with the Kilos Kabataan Liveli- SOCIAL HEALING these are to make Marawi a catalyst I Secretary Del Rosario wears his message of commitment halls, each having their own health clinics, hood Foundation in Barangay Mipaga on uring his latest visit to Marawi City, for growth, establish good governance and “Marawi will RISE” on his back as he interacts with Maranaos. and madrasahs are months away from being the eve of Marawi’s Liberation Anniversary. the TFBM chief inspected the ongo- achieve a very peaceful environment. completed. Non-infrastructure intervention, on the ing reconstruction of other mosques According to Secretary Del Rosario, the Photos courtesy of Philippine Information D Agency, NHA and Mario J. Mallari. The TFBM other hand, makes up 70% of the rehabili- — the Masjid Darussalam, Masjid Diso- government wants Marawi’s rebuilding chief is confi- tation process, the TFBM head said, noting mangcop, White Mosque and Marinaut process to serve as a template for future dent that that the MOA signing can be classified Mosque — that were either damaged or rehabilitation program for areas stricken once the under this part. destroyed during the 2017 siege. by calamities. He said that effective lead- ership plays a key role in determining the overall development of a city and true prog- ress comes hand-in-hand with peace and A catalyst for growth, establish good governance harmony. “All of these three major objectives must and achieve a very peaceful environment. be achieved in order for us, at the end of the day, to say that the rehabilitation is attested,” All of these three major objectives must Secretary Del Rosario said. be achieved in order for us to say that the The housing czar likewise pledged that the government, through the TFBM, will rehabilitation is attested”. continue in providing assistance and carry out social interventions to fast-track the Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario city’s full recovery. TFBM Chairman 28 BANGON MARAWI DECEMBER 2020

The sprawling structure of the Grand Padian Market which is MARAWI CITY: envisioned to become Marawi City’s center of commerce is only months away from completion. From ashes Photos courtesy of Philippine to Information Agency progress BY CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

MARAWI CITY — As a testament to Force’s commitment to complete the reha- The highlight of the event was the President Rodrigo Duterte’s pledge that bilitation within the incumbent adminis- rolling out of various projects that were “Marawi will rise as a prosperous city tration’s term. meant to fast-track Marawi’s recovery. once again,” major infrastructures and He said the rehabilitation is a manifes- Several groundbreaking and founda- other development projects spearheaded tation of President Duterte’s promise to tion-laying works have commenced since by Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) the Maranaos. July following the approval and release of went on full blast in July inside the Most Secretary Del Rosario spearheaded ₱3.56 billion in April and May. Affected Area. (MAA). the 3rd commemoration of Marawi’s During the commemoration of Mara- The ceremonial energization of the liberation on October 17, 2020 through a wi’s liberation, Secretary Del Rosario, who MAA’s Sectors 1 and 2 in Barangay Tolali wreath-laying ceremony in Camp Ranao was joined by other officials, also unveiled highlighted the progress in the govern- along with Armed Forces of the Phil- the newly constructed Banggolo Bridge ment’s ongoing effort to rebuild the city ippines Chief of Staff General Gilbert and led the groundbreaking ceremony for after a five-month siege by Daesh-inspired Gapay, Marawi Mayor Majul Gandamra the reconstruction of the Bato Mosque. terrorists in 2017 that left the county’s and other local officials. Story continued on PAGE 26 Islamic city in ruins. The restoration of power supply in “ground zero” signified that Marawi is gradually inching closer to recovery. I will finish this. One thing I At the heart of the rehabilitation are 56 implementing agencies that make will promise you, my brother up the TFBM, the body mandated to ensure the smooth and speedy imple- Moros, I will see to mentation of various projects in it that Marawi will rise as a Marawi. As head of the TFBM, Department of prosperous city again. Human Settlements and Urban Develop- Rodrigo Roa Duterte ment Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, on President numerous occasions, reiterated the Task