THE OFFICIAL QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

ISSN 2799-0354 VOL. 2 NO. 4

DECEMBER 2021

Pag-IBIG Fund is most trusted GOCC in 2021

Marawi rehab in final stages of completion

More than 6,000 familiesto benefit from new housing projects

P6 P7 P32

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Contents

About the coverDHSUD officials share a cup of coffee under “one roof” during the opening ceremony of the National Shelter Month to represent the safety, security and ease that a decent home in a sustainable environment can offer to families and their loved ones, even amid the challenges they will face. This exemplifies the message of this year’s celebration of providing a shelter in a community that protects its dwellers and their possessions. | Design by Glory Duller

Focusing on shielding the nation from the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with the changing climate, the 2021 National Shelter Month high-lighted the importance of safe and resilient shelters and communities during trying times.

Hence, this issue features the activities during the month-long celebra-tion, among other related initiatives of the DHSUD, its partners and stakehold-ers in helping reboot the economy and further prepare the nation for emerging challenges.

As a special addition, we included a comprehensive discussion on estab-lishing effective Open Space Networks around the country – an endeavor that will contribute in cushioning communities against the pandemic while promoting a sustainable environment.

Of course, we have our regular sections to bring you updates on our programs and policies in the human settlements and urban development sector. Feel safe while you enjoy flipping every page!

Editor’s Note

Editorial BoardChairman of the Board

Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario

Members Undersecretary Atty. Marylin M. PintorUndersecretary Albert P. dela Cruz, Sr.

Undersecretary Zyril D. CarlosAsst. Secretary Melissa A. Aradanas

Asst. Secretary Atty. Avelino D. Tolentino IIIHead Executive Asst. Leouel A. Santos

Director Atty. Alvin T. ClaridadesDirector Atty. Michael Victor C. Tezon

Director Stefan Ema Mae P. CorregidorDirector Mylene A. RiveraDirector Richard V. Ziga

OIC-Director Atty. Angelito F. AguilaOIC-Director Nova Teresa N. Asor

OIC-Director Jeanette E. CruzOIC-Director Nora L. Diaz

OIC-Director Rowena P. Dineros

Secretary’s Corner

The Official Quarterly Publication of The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development

ISSN 2799-0354DHSUD Building, Kalayaan Avenue corner Mayaman Street, Diliman,

Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1101

www.dhsud.gov.ph info@dhsud.gov.ph@DHSUDgovph

Send your contributions, messages and feedback to DHSUDgovph@gmail.com or media@dhsud.gov.ph

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SECRETARY EDUARDO D. DEL ROSARIO

As cliché as it may seem, there is certainly no place like home. Regardless of our experiences and situations, we would always wish that our respective dwelling places will be our comfort zones – our sanctuary in times of doubts and dangers.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Develop-ment aims the same, no less, for all Filipinos. We strive to live up to our vision of realizing the dream of every Filipino family for houses they can call their own, far from harm’s way.

With the myriad of adjectives we use to describe an ideal home, we find it apt and timely to choose “safe and resilient” as our keywords for the 2021 National Shelter Month celebration.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the threats of climate change, has intensified our determination to further build shelters that can stand the test of time in sustainable communities with potential for social and economic growth.

This message is exactly what we want to convey for this year’s month-long celebration. With our attached or key shelter agen-cies, we took the lead to elicit popular support from various sectors of the society and increase public awareness and partic-ipation to shelter-related programs toward the full realization of the right to adequate housing.

The various activities we put up this year embodied our theme “Ligtas at Matatag na Tahanan at Pamayanan: Kanlungan sa Gitna ng Pandemya at Nagbabagong Panahon”, focusing on safe and resilient shelters in the time of pandemic and changing climate. Anchored on this theme and following health protocols, we have showcased an array of knowledge sharing and learning oppor-tunities despite the restrictions of the community quarantine.

As a tropical country, the Philippines has been beset by tropi-cal cyclones, droughts, rising sea levels, floods and earthquakes, among many natural disasters. And, for nearly two years now, the pandemic has been plaguing nations and forced us to stay in our homes. Hence, we need resilient shelters not only to stay safe from calamities but to also take refuge from this unseen enemy.

Regardless of the roadblocks in our midst, these challenges definitely did not stop us to fulfill our state obligations in relation to the right to adequate housing as a component of the right to adequate standard of living. We continue to develop and imple-ment programs and policies that will support our aspirations in human settlements and urban development.

Throughout the year, I have personally witnessed the dawn-ing of hopes on the faces of wishful homeowners, particularly our informal settler families who are most vulnerable to hazards posed by dangerous environments, as we turnover some housing units and break ground for new ones. Checking on the quality of

the projects we establish, we ensure its features will uplift the standard of living of those who will inhabit them.

We believe the National Shelter Month celebration has somehow alleviated even a few of our woes and allow us to gain knowledge that will reassure and help us soldier on until we see better days.

Even after its conclusion, this year’s successful celebra-tion will always serve as an inspiration to achieve more. We are looking straight ahead to continue what we have started from the conception of DHSUD and maintain our upward momentum in bringing the sector to greater heights. We will continue to innovate as we proactively set our direction to conquer emerging challenges along the way – even beyond the pandemic and climate change.

Once again, let me assure you of the housing sector’s commitment to improve the lives of every Filipino family through adequate and affordable housing, inclusive human settlements in well-planned communities.

Filipino family’s refuge in time of uncertainties

Contributors

Vox Pop CommentersHermito Africano

Amelita MolinaJess Austria

Negruz Zauruz VvjMark BenedictLolit Tolentino

Marilyn VenturaVanessa Mabilangan

Jimmy FuentesMarietta P. Gonzales

Marilyn Pelindiana Villastiqui

Ronnie James CasamayorOIC-Dir. Nora DiazMic Ivan Sumilang

Ibani PadaoRoland Dane Carreon

Jackie Lyn Nunag-PapaMohammad Haydrey Aminulla

James Earl Asas

Editorial StaffEditor-in-ChiefMario J. Mallari

Managing EditorMyriam G. Layaoen

Editorial Assistant Lorraine P. Valencia

PhotographerMary Lyn M. Bosogon

ContributorAdriana T. Roncesvalles

Creative DirectorGlory M. Duller

Photographer/WriterChristian V. Cabajar

Roberts MariñasGrace De Vera

Mary Jean H. AsumDomingo Jacinto, Jr.

Allan MerinJoey Roi Bondoc

WriterKimberly C. Malait

3 SECRETARY’S CORNER

4-5 PROFILES Newly-appointed officials; new assignments NEWS6 Pag-IBIG Fund is most trusted GOCC in 2021 Philippine Trust Index7 More than 6,000 families to benefit from new housing projects9 Planning for sustainable development

10-15 FEATURE PLANNER’S NOTE: National open space network

The Growing Need for Integrated Public, Open, and Green Spaces

HIGHLIGHT 16 - 19 2021 National Shelter Month: Safe, resilient homes

amid pandemic and climate change

20-21 DHSUD KAPIHAN Bottoms up for “Kapihan sa DHSUD”…for now! FROM THE REGIONS 22 Nomads no more: Housing project for Malaueg tribe launched 23 DHSUD-12 holds first housing summit

OTHER NEWS24 SHFC turns over 370 housing units to Malabon, Quezon City families25 Safeguarding vulnerable communities: DHSUD, IOM ink key pact

VOX POP 26 Collier’s Insights: Condominium developers line up projects to capture market recovery27 From the Public: Ano ang ibig sabihin para sa iyo ng ligtas

at matatag na tahanan at pamayanan? 28 EXTRAS

Anti-COVID war: Most DHSUD employees now fully vaccinated DHSUD celebrates 2021 NQC

29 MEDIA CORNER BANGON MARAWI 30 - 32 Marawi rehab in final stages of completion

Virgie AlisAG Arlene Leyte Giljang

James Earl AsasDave Rosendal Hayahay

Dennis Galicia

Send your contributions, messages and feedback to DHSUDgovph@gmail.com

Connect with us

4

Director Jeofrey Tupas is a fresh face in the housing department as he recently took the helm of the DHSUD-NCR office. Having served in the Philippine Army for more than 20 years, he has proven that

public service is always his top priority.An outstanding alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy, he broadened his studies by attend-ing the United States Army Engineer School in Fort Belvoir, Virginia where he was given the International Officer Honor Award. Afterward, he completed his Master’s Degree in Business

Administration at the University of the Philippines Diliman.During his extensive period of service, Director Tupas held various posts and capacities in the

Armed Forces of the Philippines, earning him the rank of colonel. Indeed, his years of service have honed him to become the expert in security and intelligence that he is today. And so, he continued to

share his expertise as head of security units and general services divisions in esteemed banking institu-tions including the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines. Proving that his astuteness in surveillance never rusts, he continued to become the technical assistant for

Intelligence and Counterintelligence under the Office of the Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration. Director Tupas is also a real estate practitioner as he became a company commander of the 52nd Engi-neering Brigade and assistant chief of engineers under the Army, making him no stranger to the housing and urban development sector.

JEOFREY O. TUPASDIRECTOR IV, REGIONAL OFFICE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION

Undersecretary Albert Dela Cruz is a real estate practitioner, environmental/urban planner, renew-able energy activist, waste to energy innovator and a public servant.

He graduated with a degree in BS Biology at the Angeles University Foundation. Among his gradu-ate and advance studies include those with the Institute of Corporate Directors, Philippine Insti-tute of Environmental Planners, Philippine Association of Realty Consultants and Specialists, CREBA Dela Salle and the Ateneo University Clark Campus.He is a PRC licensed real estate broker, real estate consultant, environmental planner, occupa-

tional and safety health practitioner, Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board Managing Offi-cer and a licensed pollution control officer. He was awarded as Most Outstanding Young Leader in

Mexico, Pampanga and Most Outstanding Alumnus of Angeles University Foundation. Prior to being DHSUD undersecretary, he served as member of the board for Philippine National Oil

Company (PNOC) Renewable Corporation and the North Luzon Railway Corporation. He is concurrently a member of PNOC Exploration Corporation. In Mexico, Pampanga, he was a former Sangguniang Bayan member and later

ALBERT PAGCU DELA CRUZ, SR.UNDERSECRETARY FOR REGIONAL OPERATIONS

A lady with Hispanic lineage, Assistant Regional Director Gifaril Cabalquinto, at a glance, may look strict and stern but is actually a very witty and with a genuine sense of fun lady boss. She definitely

knows how to balance work, fostering a conducive environment in the office.ARD Gif has been in the government for almost 28 years. In 1992, she started her career in public service at the National Food Authority (NFA), rising from the ranks until 2020. She is not a nouveau to housing matters as she has supervised the procurement of construction materials and other construction related works in her previous job at the NFA as Supervising Grains Oper-

ations Officer (Regional Engineer).She is a graduate of Bachelor in Civil Engineering, and currently completing her Master in Manage-

ment degree, specializing in public management.

GIFARIL MARTINEZ CABALQUINTODIRECTOR III, REGIONAL OFFICE 12

With the retirement of DHSUD Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau OIC-Director Nora Diaz, Atty. Dunstan San Vicente now takes the seat as the bureau’s head in his concurrent capacity as Regional Office 4B Assistant Regional Director.Meanwhile, Regional Office 4A Assistant Director Felix Brazil has been reassigned to Regional Office III as OIC-Regional Director.

Profiles As our family continues to grow, we are delighted to introduce the new additions to our management team, all ready and excited to serve you even better.Here’s a preview on the profiles of our newly-appointed officials – Undersecretary Albert Dela Cruz, Sr., Director Jeofrey Tupas and Assistant Regional Director Gifaril Cabalquinto.

became the municipal vice mayor of the town. Among his advocacies include Environment Planning for the Ancestral Domain Sustainable Protection Program of Sangguniang Tribung Aeta of Mabalacat City, Pampanga

and Bamban, Tarlac. He was also a former special real estate lecturer at Adamson University.

ATTY. FELIXBRAZIL

ATTY. DUNSTAN SAN VICENTE

NEW ASSIGNMENTS

76 NEWS D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1 D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1 NEWS 76

More than 6,000 families to benefit from new housing projects

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario roamed around the country to spearhead the groundbreaking ceremonies, project launch and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signings of 11 government housing projects for nearly 6,000 families.

The housing czar said the government, under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte, has been steadfast in meeting its targets to construct settlement projects nationwide.

“These housing projects are solid testa-ment of the Duterte administration’s commitment to provide resilient, safe and

This is according to the 2021 Philippine Trust Index, a nation-wide survey by the EON Group that cuts across backgrounds to measure Filipinos’ trust in the government, the business sector, the media, non-governmental organizations, the Church and the academe.

“We are truly honored to be included in the list of most trusted government agencies. The latest results of the Philippine Trust Index and our 9th straight unmodified opinion from COA show that we have fulfilled our duties during the pandemic while still maintaining the highest standards of transparency and integ-rity in our work. This is aligned with President Duterte’s vision of clean government with heart for service,” said DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. del Rosario, who also chairs the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees.

The 2021 PTI noted that “in terms of government agencies, departments that got the highest trust are those whose functions require them to remain engaged with the public, even during the pandemic such as online learning, finance regulation, loan assis-tance and aid distribution.”

The Department of Education earned the highest trust rating of 91% followed by Pag-IBIG Fund at 89% – the highest among govern-ment owned and controlled corporations on the list.

“On behalf of all Lingkod Pag-IBIG, thank you for your trust, our dear members! As you know, we never stopped providing service even during the lockdown and community quarantines. Instead, we improved our digital assets so you can continue transacting with us online. We have proven that during this health crisis, you can always count on our Lingkod Pag-IBIG brand of service. And, while we have previously received awards and recognition, we are even more grateful that it is the public itself, the people we serve, that ranked us as the most trustworthy GOCC in the country for 2021,” Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Acmad Rizaldy P. Moti said. | Domingo “Jack” Jacinto, Jr., Department Manager III, Public and Media Affairs Department at dcjacintojr@pagibigfund.gov.ph.

Pag-IBIG Fund is most trusted GOCC in 2021

Philippine Trust IndexCHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario signs a Memorandum of Agreement with Palayan City Mayor Adrianne Mae Cuevas for a housing project.

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (center) joins Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (right) and Pag-IBIG Fund CEO Acmad Rizaldy Moti in inaugurating the BALAI Munti project (left photo) in Muntinlupa City.

To help realize the majority of Filipinos’ dream of having a house of their own, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban

Development (DHSUD) kicked off several housing projects in October and November this year.

Story continued on PAGE 8

Christian V. Cabajar

On behalf of all Lingkod Pag-IBIG, thank you for your trust, our dear members! As you know, we never stopped providing service even during the lockdown and community quarantines. Instead, we improved our digital assets so you can continue transacting with us online. We have proven that during this health crisis, you can always count on our Lingkod Pag-IBIG brand of service. And, while we have previously received awards and recognition, we are even more grateful that it is the public itself, the people we serve, that ranked us as the most trustworthy GOCC in the country for 2021.”

Acmad Rizaldy P. MotiPag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer

Pag-IBIG Fund is the most trusted govern-ment-run corporation according to a nationwide trust survey of key institutions

in the Philippines.

MOST TRUSTED GOCC

Based on 2021 Philippine Trust Index

TRUST RATING

Pag-IBIG Fund

98 8 NEWS S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1 D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1 NEWS

Nearly 6,000 families... | From page 7

affordable shelters to all Filipinos, espe-cially the underprivileged,” Secretary Del Rosario said.

“Through DHSUD, the government is now expanding its reach to assist more Fili-pino families to avail of decent and afford-able homes they can call their own,” he added.

In October, Secretary Del Rosario signed an agreement and broke ground for land development of a Pag-IBIG Fund socialized housing complex in Alitagtag, Batangas. The project will build 300 housing units to benefit the families displaced by the 2020 Taal Volcano eruption, and local govern-ment employees.

Another government center and settle-ment project in Mataasnakahoy funded by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation will additionally house around 100 families affected by the disaster.

In the same month, SOCCSKSARGEN witnessed the official rollout of the Koro-nadal City ville Resettlement Project, with 170 housing units for construction to accommodate informal settler families (ISFs) and local government employees in the region. Meanwhile, the M’lang Reset-tlement Project Phase 1 will also provide 50 housing units to qualified beneficiaries.

The National Shelter Month in Octo-ber ended on a high note as the DSHUD launched the BAL AI Munti Project in

Lakeview, Brgy. Putatan in partnership with Pag-IBIG Fund and Muntinlupa City government. A total of 668 housing units will be constructed through the project.

Secretary Del Rosario lauded the proj-ect as a “remarkable achievement” built on unity toward providing access to decent and affordable housing.

The following month, the ground-breaking of the Uswag Low-Rise Residen-tial Building took place in San Isidro, Jaro District, Iloilo City. Jointly undertaken by DHSUD, SM Development Corporation and the city government, the project will benefit 120 local government employees and their families.

To accommodate more dwellers, DHSUD through the Social Housing Finance Corpo-ration turned over high density housing projects in two Metro Manila cities. The three-story Marangal Village Homeowners Association (HOA) Inc. project in Malabon City is intended for 282 member-families while the four-story Samahang Magkaka-pitbahay na Nagkakaisa HOA Inc. project in Quezon City will house 92 ISFs living along the Tullahan River.

In Bataan, Secretary Del Rosario led the groundbreaking and ceremonial turn-over of check donation for the 1Bataan Village in Orion to build 2 ,936 hous-ing units for ISFs displaced by a fire two years ago and as a resettlement site for

those living along danger zones across the province. The project is a joint under-taking among DHSUD, Bataan provincial government, National Housing Author-ity (NHA) and Ayala Land Corp., through its incentivized compliance to balanced housing program.

Also in Region 3, the DHSUD chief rolled out two more housing projects in Baler, Aurora for 143 ISFs. This was on top of the MOA sealed with Palayan City government for a soon-to-be-constructed settlement facility in the area. The agreement will pave the way for an NHA-led socialized housing project also for ISFs.

Just recently, Secretary Del Rosario graced the ceremonial turnover of Ciudad de Strike Phase I — SHFC’s latest low-rise housing project — in Barangay Molino 1, Bacoor City, Cavite.

A total of 1,440 families living in danger zones across the city will benefit from the undertaking.

“During this challenging time, the government is particularly needed to swiftly act toward our country’s full recov-ery. For DHSUD, we are ramping up our efforts to provide for the housing needs especially of the underprivileged. Thanks to our key shelter agencies, partner LGUs, developers and other stakeholders who are helping us do so,” Secretary Del Rosario said.

To this end, DHSUD Environmental Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau has been engaging various LGUs in formulating their Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) and Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plans (PDPFPs) to ensure compliance to existing policies, stan-dards and guidelines.

A CLUP is a tool to ensure safety, sustain-ability and resiliency of all human settle-ments and urban development, while maximizing the potentials of natural resources, with emphasis on disaster mitiga-tion in the city/municipal level.

PDPFP, on the other hand, details the effec-tive utilization of land resources to harness the province’s full growth potential to further benefit its citizens. It likewise paves the way for more economic activities in the provinces.

This year, DHSUD has approved and ratified PDPFPs of five provinces, namely, Southern Leyte, Leyte, Marinduque, Orien-tal Mindoro and South Cotabato, and CLUPs of the cities of Mandaue, Zamboanga and Ormoc – all with a common aspiration of promoting sustainable progress in their respective cities and provinces.

“Each approval of these plans not only showcased the province, city or munici-pality’s physical characteristics and natu-ral resources, but also gave way to lively discourses on the unique developmental concerns experienced by each LGU and corresponding solutions to address such problems,” Secretary Del Rosario explained.

The housing czar added that the develop-ment plans will serve as a roadmap, guiding the LGUs into transforming their respective jurisdictions as green and resilient to ensure better living standards for their people.

“The CLUPs, for instance, showed us the LGU’s sheer dedication in espousing sustainable and resilient environment plan-ning, strengthening climate change and disaster risk measures, including construc-tion of quality shelter that respects cultural norms, implementing a ridge-to-reef approach in rural and urban growth areas, as well as protecting rich natural resources,” the DHSUD chief added.

As mandated by Republic Act 11201, DHSUD is tasked to help LGUs in crafting their respective development plans.

Secretary Del Rosario said the Depart-ment will continue to assist LGUs in pursuing

the realization of modern, decent, economi-cally viable and environmentally sustainable Filipino communities nationwide, especially amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“As the problems faced by our provinces become more complex, we also continue to come up with measures to help them manage urbanization and development in their areas of jurisdiction. We remain relent-less in crafting strategies deemed useful in the realization of our vision for the sector – better, greener, smarter human settlements and urban systems in a more inclusive Phil-ippines,” he ended.

The housing czar also gave credit to newly retired ELUPDB OIC-Director Nora Diaz for her more than four decades of committed public service, as well as for spearheading the bureau in achieving all of its accomplish-ments.

Planning for sustainable developmentCHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (right) spearheads the groundbreaking and ceremonial turnover of check donation for the 1Bataan Village in Bataan.

Christian V. Cabajar

As part of the Department of Human Settlements and

Urban Development’s (DHSUD) mandate in promoting

sustainable development, it has been working with local

governments nationwide in the development of the

latter’s respective land use and development plans.

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario affirms the CLUPs of Mandaue City and Zamboanga City, emphasizing the need to harmonize this with their respective local shelter plans.

Christian V. Cabajar

1110 FEATURE S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

Open spaces pertain to areas where permanent buildings shall not be allowed and which may only be used as forest, buffer/greenbelts, parks and playgrounds (Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board, 2013). In his book Property, Patrimony and Territory, Ernesto Serote (2004) extended the scope of open spaces which included protected areas like prime agricultural lands and historical sites of national or local significance. Environmentally critical and hazardous areas can also be considered as open spaces as they may function as a preservation area.

An open space is an effective tool for integrating people with their environment. It serves as a venue for people to interact with each other and perform functions that

could be different from their daily lives, especially for those who reside in an urban setting. Through the years, open spaces have played substantial roles in attaining the goal of establishing livable, safe, inclu-sive and sustainable communities. Past studies showed these spaces provide social, health and aesthetic, ecological, economic and security benefits (ASSURE, 2019), and still positively impact the welfare of the citizens.

However, the increasing human popu-lation and rapid urbanization have signifi-cantly encroached upon and reduced the size of open spaces through time. The bigger the number of people who live in a particular area, the larger the number of resources needed to sustain their needs.

In this case, open spaces are part of the diminishing resources. Open spaces are often sacrificed for land uses that are viewed as more profitable, and this has been the prevailing trend up to the pres-ent. Also, mismanagement has been a factor that contributed to the continuous depletion of available spaces for the said purpose. Philippine laws requiring the provision of such spaces only cover resi-dential developments and subdivisions. This could be a reason for the low priority given to open space projects.

This planner’s note presents the critical steps that must be undertaken to establish and guide the design, development and management of an open space network across the country.

ESTABLISHMENT OF MINIMUM ALLOCATION FOR PUBLIC, OPEN AND GREEN SPACESAs mentioned, Philippine laws and guide-lines that support the establishment or preparation of open spaces are limited to subdivisions and residential development. To operationalize them, local government units (LGUs) must be required to iden-tify, allocate and integrate developmental designs of open spaces in their Comprehen-sive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) and Zoning Ordinances (ZOs). LGUs could use the following approaches to determine open space requirements based on the features of their territory and purpose (Maruani & Amit-Cohen, 2007):a. Opportunistic model — open spaces

result from opportunities that appear rather than through systematic plan-ning. An LGU could either utilize or ignore these opportunities.

b. Space standards or quantitative model – the primary principle is that a specific minimum size of open space is required for a given population.

c. Park System model – suggests devel-oping a set of functionally interrelated open spaces in a given geographical area. It can be applied to LGUs that possess similar features.

d. Garden city or comprehensive plan-ning model – this relates the spatial array of open spaces to the configu-ration of developed zones. Thus, the establishment of open spaces by the LGUs could be dependent on the devel-opment around them.

e. Shape-related model – open spaces are defined by their respective shapes and how they affect the form of other spaces adjacent to them. It can be combined with the other models.

f. Landscape-related model – aims to conserve landscapes that LGUs view as valuable, including mountains and rivers.

g. Ecological determinism – the natural characteristics of the lands of LGUs are primarily considered in the planning process for the establishment of open spaces.

h. Protected landscapes – practiced to conserve outstanding, unique or endangered values of landscape and heritage sites.

i. Biosphere reserves – aims to conserve culture, heritage and traditional agri-cultural practices. It proposes the effi-cient usage of existing resources while avoiding any damage to the environ-ment.

Individually or combined, these models can be utilized depending on the needs of a particular location. In the Philippines, the Republic Act No. 7588 or the National Inte-grated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992 (and as amended by RA 11038 of the Expanded NIPAS Act of 2018) mandates the protection of proclaimed “outstand-ingly remarkable areas and biologically important public lands that are habitats of rare and endangered species of plants and animals, biogeographic zones and related ecosystems, whether terrestrial, wetland or marine.” The law recognizes these portions of land and water for their unique physi-cal and biological significance and aims to protect them from destructive human exploitation. This, in itself, can be classi-fied as an application of the protected land-scape approach, which relies on a statutory declaration to be implemented.

To complement this, the space stan-dards or quantitative model may be utilized as a basis for open space planning. The WHO standard of nine square meters of green open space per person could be

used as a reference by the national govern-ment in setting the minimum open space allocation per LGU. In the absence of such regulation, LGUs are left to formulate their own set of standards depending on their current and projected supply and demand for open spaces.

ESTABLISHMENT OF A NETWORK OF PUBLIC, OPEN AND GREEN SPACESTo further secure the protected areas from future development and exploita-tion, this planner’s note suggests the establishment of a National Open Space Network that will link the NIPAS with heritage zones, urban agriculture areas, easements, buffer zones and govern-ment infrastructures. Serving as the focal points of the planned network, all open spaces throughout the country will be connected to the protected zones. The Philippines has 244 protected areas declared through the NIPAS Act, E-NI-PAS Act, and other proclamations (Phil-ippine Clearing House Mechanism, n.d.). Each city or municipality could then identify sites in their territories to integrate with the mentioned protected areas. Quezon City, as shown in Figure 1, has several open and green spaces to work on and they could be integrated into the protected areas in the surround-ing provinces.

Figure 2 shows the location of terres-

The Growing Need for Integrated Public, Open and Green Spaces

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends nine square meters of green open space per person. Metro Manila has five square meters for its citizens.

NATIONAL OPEN SPACE NETWORK

KEY INFORMATION• In the 2015 rankings of the greenest world

cities, Singapore ranked first, with a green space to total land area ratio of 47%. It was followed by Rio de Janeiro in Brazil with 29%, and New York with 14% (Gan, 2015). Unfortunately, no cities from the Philip-pines were included in the top positions.

• The City of Manila has approximately 3.69% or 140.4 hectares of green spaces out of its total land area of 3,800 hectares (Enano, 2019).

• Overpopulation, unregulated develop-ment, and low prioritization for the establishment of open spaces have prevented the realization of their benefits

PLANNER’S NOTE

Pexel

Riz Estrada

131212 FEATURE

trial and marine protected areas in the country which are also considered open spaces. These areas are located in almost all parts of the country, mostly in the prov-inces. Since the majority of these protected areas are located outside the National Capi-tal Region, the network is recommended to engage LGUs currently evolving into urban areas but also with a lot of prospective open spaces for development. As mentioned, the network is envisioned to start at the LGU level. As their number begins to grow, interconnectivity among them could then be drawn as their expansion is regulated properly.

Furthermore, the Geographic Informa-tion System (GIS) will be an effective tool to identify potential target sites for the said purpose. Once the open space-related programs, projects and activities (PPA) have been established, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms should also be implemented to identify their efficiency in delivering the anticipated outcomes. It would help in determining the neces-

sary adjustments to improve the application and perfor-mance of the PPAs.

PROVISION OF FUNDINGFOR OPEN SPACE-RELATEDPROJECTSF unding is one factor that could hinder LGUs f rom actively pursu-ing the establishment of public parks and open spaces (PPOS) projects. Hence, there are only a few success stories on it. However, LGUs need to understand that the bene-fits would most likely outweigh the costs in the long run. Figure 4 shows the cost-benefit valua-tion of municipal forests in five cities in the United States. The benefit-cost

ratio (BCR) implies that the expen-ditures resulted in benefits with relatively higher values.

Another example is the K lyde Warren Park in Dallas, Texas which had a budget of 110 million US dollars for its construc-tion. Impact assessments

showed it is expected to generate $312.7 million in economic benefit and $12.7 million in tax revenues. On envi-ronmental benefits, the trees could catch carbon dioxide of up

to 18,500 pounds and

diminish stormwater drainage by more than 64,000 gallons per year (Congress for the New Urbanism, n.d.). If the protected areas in the Philippines can be preserved and integrated with new open and green space projects, LGUs and their citizens may derive several benefits similar to the cited US cities experience.

Therefore, the national government should take the necessary steps in launch-ing these types of projects. It should devise financing options to encourage LGUs to develop available spaces into parks, visual corridors, walkable streets and/or bikeable boulevards and avenues. The Department of Budget and Management’s “Green, Green, Green!” City Public Open Spaces Assistance Program, which as of 2019 has 145 participant cities (Fabonan, 2019), including the one shown in Figure 3, and other similar financing mechanisms should be made available for deserv-ing and willing LGUs. Moreover, cities and municipalities that will improve

The Iloilo Esplanade: A model project Land value capture is another land-based financing option that LGUs could explore to put up parks, plazas and other public spaces. They could generate additional funds in the form of tax revenues as the land value within their territories increases through the improvement of their public infrastructures and services. Through this, they may initiate more prospective proj-ects to complement the existing initiatives that already contrib-ute to the welfare of the citizens and lead to increased land values in the areas near them.

Iloilo Esplanade, built for 58.7 million, is a good example. After its development in 2012, the land value of its surround-ing areas increased. Before the project, the cost of land ranged

from 2,000 to 3,000 pesos per square meter. At present, it costs no less than 18,000 pesos per square meter (PGAA Creative Design, 2021). Aside from this, the renowned esplanade, built through a community effort, serves as a reminder that the establishment of such project is possible and can be replicated by other LGUs.

The sectoral benefits and gains from increased land price should serve as the primary motivations for LGUs to prioritize open space projects for their constituents. In return, the LGUs should provide legislative and financial support. All sectors should be encouraged to actively participate in ensuring the successful establishment of such projects.

Figure 1: Quezon City’s Green Lung Network

@Quezon City Government CLUP 2011-2025

E-NIPAS Protected AreasThe E-NIPAS Protected Areas are protected areas deemed to be of ecological significance with essential ecosystem functions

Figure 2: Protected Areas in the Philippines through RA 11038

Figure 4. Annual costs and benefits of municipal forests (McPherson et. al, 2005)

their historical plazas and heritage sites through adaptive reuse and retrofitting could also qualify for incentives.

ADDRESSING THE LACK OF AVAILABLE SPACE IN URBAN AREASAside from monetary concerns, low to zero land availability especially in highly urbanized and industrialized cities hinders the LGUs from establishing parks, gardens and other open spaces. In Metro

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N

Slope-steep

Parks and Open Spaces

Roads

Waterways

Aquaduct

Transmissin Line

Faultline

Figure 3: A proposed 4,610-square meter public open space project in Dagupan City

@Department of Budget and Management

Mohammad Haydrey Aminulla

1514 FEATURE D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

Figure 5. Proposed Pasig River Linear Park in Sta. Mesa, Manila@ DHSUD/James Earl Asas

Manila, several open spaces are inacces-sible to the public as they are owned by private entities, such as exclusive golf courses and cemeteries. Also included is a portion of the La Mesa Watershed, one of the largest open spaces in NCR in terms of land area (Ranada, 2020). This is an issue especially for a region that has a scarcity of land resources. Therefore, LGUs should be creative in utilizing their available lands, and ensuring its accessibility to the public.

It is important to note that open spaces do not necessarily require enormous land areas. Landscape Architect Paulo Alcazaren (2021), a speaker in a webinar which was initiated by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Settlements (DHSUD) regarding Phil-ippine plazas, said LGUs must maximize their available open spaces regardless of the size. On CLUPs, ZOs and other local plans, the LGUs through various tools, should identify the potential areas that they can utilize as open spaces. Land capability and suitability assess-ments should be conducted to accurately determine the best available lands for the said purpose (ASSURE, 2019). In Metro Manila, small pockets of unutilized spaces may be used for functions similar to parks or parking lots (Ranada, 2020). River easements may also be developed into linear parks, similar to the Iloilo Esplanade. Figure 5 shows a potential design of linear parks along Pasig River.

Another option would be to close a partic-ular street or road at a specific date and time, giving way to activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, dining and shopping. More-over, LGUs may collaborate with commercial establishments like malls to incorporate open spaces in their building designs or request private developments to make their green and open spaces accessible to the public.

To aid these initiatives, several legisla-tions such as the Local Government Code (RA 7160), Batas Pambansa Bilang 220 (BP 220), Presidential Decree 957 Subdivision Guidelines, Farm Lot Guidelines, Indus-trial and Commercial Guidelines and Pres-idential Decree 1216 must be updated to fix the allocation of spaces for parks and urban agriculture and convert easements into green corridors and streets. A national law that mainly focuses on the require-

ment of open spaces in LGUs should also be enacted, especially with the growing demand for them due to the pandemic.

COVID-19: THE NEED FOR OPEN SPACESInsufficient space poses several problems, especially amid a global pandemic. Apart

from wearing personal protective equipment (PPEs), social distancing is highly recom-mended due to a high risk of transmission among people with close contact. Moreover, activities in enclosed spaces increase the risk of viral transmission compared to open areas. Studies also showed people’s mental health conditions can be improved if they spend at

least 20 minutes in parks (Ranada, 2020).Aside from these, open spaces serve

multiple purposes that could benefit vari-ous sectors. They are strategic locations to position modular tent hospitals, test-ing centers and isolation facilities during a pandemic and other health-related crises. They can also serve as sites for commu-nity pantries, an initiative that proved to be essential for people who do not have the means to meet their daily needs. These can also be repurposed as evacuation centers during disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (2015) included Marikina Sports Complex, Villamor Air Base, UP Diliman Grounds, Intramuros Golf Course, Veterans Memo-rial Medical Center, Quirino Grandstand, etc. in the earthquake contingency plan.

With the above purposes, open spaces will continue to be a significant component of development for the ‘new normal’. More-over, the benefits support the call for addi-tional attention on open spaces projects.

CONCLUSIONDespite the perceived sectoral benefits that open spaces present to LGUs, it appears that they are still not prioritized. Aside from a national law that requires the estab-lishment of open spaces, the lack of funds and available land are the primary factors that hinder the LGUs from taking on such projects. They are still viewed as a set of financially draining projects and activities.

However, the importance of open spaces, especially in the time of pandemic, is evident. With the required health proto-col on social distancing, people would benefit with sufficient open spaces in their communities. The spread of viruses like COVID-19 in areas with more open spaces will be slower compared to those with lesser space. Thus, aside from their functions during a pandemic, the social, economic and ecological benefits prove and strengthen the necessity to establish a network of open spaces.

The DHSUD, mandated to manage and regulate housing, human settlements and urban development, shall continue to urge

LGU officials to proactively establish PPOS projects. Policy coherence and institutional coordination among agencies and organi-zations should also be propelled to increase the success rate of such projects.

RECOMMENDATIONSComing up with a policy or legislation that will set the standard minimum open space is highly recommended.

The DHSUD must spearhead the formula-tion of a policy that will provide for the estab-lishment and management of a network of open spaces in the entire country. Building on this policy, design guidelines shall be developed to assist the LGUs in prioritizing the allocation and designation of open and green spaces in their development plans.

The existing NIPAS could be a starting point for the establishment of a network of open and green spaces that will link scat-tered spaces where development will be planned and built based on the LGUs’ over-all goals and objectives.

Incentives could be given to performing LGUs to encourage compliance with the set open space standards. Through the assis-tance of the national government, they should undertake open space initiatives, including the integration of protected areas in their strategies.

More financial mechanisms similar to the Green, Green, Green Program of the DBM that would support these projects should be introduced to the LGUs. The capacity of LGUs to prepare and carry out public-private partnerships for the estab-lishment and maintenance of open and green spaces should also be developed.

Special arrangements with the private

sector should also be undertaken to make their privately-owned open and green spaces accessible to the public and become part of the network of open spaces.

Public participation is an integral part of the success of such projects, Hence, commu-nity involvement in open space planning and management must be encouraged to integrate the knowledge and preferences of residents, inspire action and interaction and foster the development of vibrant and dynamic cities and municipalities.

Disclaimer:Due to the ongoing pandemic, this planner’s note utilized secondary data and information with the intent of raising awareness and understand-ing of the policy issue. It also tries to present corre-sponding solutions to address the said problem. This document is being published to facilitate discussion on the topic and solicit comments and recommendations that will be used as inputs to policy formulation. Further studies would be conducted to come up with evidence-based policy decisions and actions. References used for this material may be accessed here: https://tinyurl.com/OpenSpaceNetwork.

Written by:Ronnie James Casamayor

Contributors:OIC-Dir. Nora DiazMic Ivan Sumilang

Ibani PadaoRoland Dane Carreon

Jackie Lyn Nunag-PapaMohammad Haydrey Aminulla

James Earl AsasRoberts Mariñas

UN-HABITAT

Figure 7, 8, and 9: Declared as protected areas under NIPAS — Luneta Park under the National Park category, Mayon Volcano as a Natural Park, and the entire province of Palawan as a Mangrove Swamp Forest Reserve

Jermaine Boyles Chriz Lumianrio Aris Leoven

16 HIGHLIGHT D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

SAFE, RESILIENT HOMES AMID PANDEMIC AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Showcasing each DHSUD office as a foundation of love, warmth and happy memories, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) celebrated

the 2021 National Shelter Month in October with the theme “Ligtas at Matatag na Tahanan at Pamayanan: Kanlungan sa Gitna ng Pandemya at Nagbabagong Panahon (Safe and Resilient Shel-ter in the Time of Pandemic and Changing Climate)”.

This year’s celebration highlighted the role of DHSUD and its key shelter agencies (KSA) in providing access to decent, resilient and affordable shelters to Filipino families, especially amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario spearheaded the opening ceremony during the fourth episode of the “Kapi-han sa DHSUD: Housing Matters,” stressing out that Filipi-nos, particularly those in the low-income bracket, can rely on DHSUD and its partners in providing access to safe and resilient homes.

“Let me once again assure you of DHSUD and its part-ner-agencies’ commitment to improve the lives of every Fili-pino family through adequate and affordable housing, inclusive human settlements and well-planned communities,” Secretary Del Rosario said.

Undersecretary Marylin Pintor and other senior officials and special guests also participated via video conference.

SHOW OF SUPPORTIn support to this year’s cause, heads of KSAs, as well as top officials and representatives from the private sector, particularly partner developers, also joined in the virtual event.

Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Acmad Rizaldy Moti, National Housing Authority Assistant General Manager

Victor Balba, Social Housing Finance Corporation President Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling, National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation President Carlo Luis Rabat and Human Settle-ments Adjudication Commission Executive Commissioner Melzar Galicia extended their respective messages, backing the Department’s efforts in further empowering the housing sector.

The country’s major developers also expressed their commit-ment to continue supporting DHSUD in pursuing its housing and urban development goals.

SHDA National President May Rodriguez and Chairman of the Board Rosie Tsai particularly vowed SHDA’s support to DHSUD’s 20-year housing roadmap, especially in establishing more socialized housing projects nationwide.

NREA Chair-Emerita Marissa del Mar, meanwhile, high-lighted DHSUD’s proactive role in assisting housing developers and thanked the Department for its efforts in keeping the hous-ing industry afloat despite the health crisis.

OSHDP President Paolo Giovanni Olivares, on the other hand, lauded DHSUD and its key shelter agencies for their pivotal role in helping provide the quality public service in the housing sector.

Finally, CREBA President Noel Toti Carino expressed the association’s support to DHSUD’s housing agenda, stating that the organization will always be behind the Department in all its developmental initiatives.

JAM-PACKEDIt was truly a jam-packed month for DHSUD, its KSAs and part-ner-developers as numerous activities related to the housing sector were held to mark the special occasion.

At the DHSUD Central Office, the Department, through its bureaus and services, carried out various events and

2021 National Shelter Month

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario (center), along with Undersecretary Marylin Pintor (left) and Assistant Secretary Avelino Tolentino III, spearheads the launch of the National Shelter on October 1, 2021. The housing czar, in his message, pledged that DHSUD will uphold its commitment in providing resilient and safe shelters for Filipino families Christian V. Cabajar

18 HIGHLIGHT18 HIGHLIGHT D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

programs meant to further raise public awareness on the different advocacies by the government and its partner orga-nizations on the provision of decent and affordable homes to Filipino families.

The Environmental, Land Use, and Urban Planning and Development Bureau organized a forum for environmental planners, highlighting its role in promoting efficient and resil-ient utilization of natural resources among local government units.

The Homeowners’ Association and Community Develop-ment Bureau, meanwhile, spearheaded an online forum called “Laging HOAnda”, orienting HOAs on disaster-preparedness to help them mitigate the psychological and mental impacts of calamities.

The Public Assistance Service, through the Communications Development and Media Relations Division, carried out four episodes of the Kapihan sa DHSUD: Housing Matters, over the course of the month, with housing-related topics high on the agenda.

The DHSUD-National Capital Region, and the National Housing Authority, set up an exhibit at the Central Office lobby highlighting the month-long event, in partnership with private companies.

The KSAs also rolled out several activities in line with the National Shelter Month. To spice things up a bit, the Pag-IBIG Fund held regional raffles among housing loan borrowers with updated payments.

SHFC, meanwhile, held online forums on Capacity Build-ing on Community Organizing Work for partner LGUs based in Visayas and Mindanao.

The NHMFC, on the other hand, launched the Enhanced Reverse Mortgage Program, which aims to meet the need of senior citizens. The scheme gives senior citizens the opportu-nity to borrow using the “equity” of their properties.

They will be will be able to borrow based on the value of their property and their age, with the proceed to be based according to the seniors’ preferred option and no payment is required as long as they adhere to the conditions of the program.

The KSAs, altogether, likewise organized online and physi-cal housing fairs nationwide. DHSUD regional offices also held various activities anchored on the celebration’s theme.

NO TO CORRUPTIONAs the month-long event came to a close, the Department offi-cially launched its Anti-Corruption Committee, coinciding with the eighth episode of the “Kapihan sa DHSUD: Housing Matters” led by no less than Secretary Del Rosario himself.

During the activity, the housing czar also administered the oath of commitment to panel members.

“We are launching our anti-corruption committee to create and sustain a venue for checks-and-balances in our policies, programs and operations, ensuring full integrity among us, our

backbone of honesty while we cultivate service excellence,” the housing czar said in his message.

He also thanked the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commis-sion led by Chairperson Greco Belgica for uplifting the pride and dignity of the men and women in the bureaucracy through stern and logical campaigns on good and clean governance.

Under Executive Order No. 43 as amended by EO No. 73, all agencies in the executive branch are obliged to form their respective anti-corruption committees.

Proclamation No. 662 declares the month of October every year as National Shelter Month, recognizing hous-ing as vital to the overall development of the country and enhancement of the social, economic and spiritual well-be-ing of Filipinos.

“Let me once again assure you of DHSUD and its partner-agencies’ commitment to improve the lives of every Filipino family through adequate and af fordable housing,

inclusive human settlements and well-planned communitiesSAFE, RESILIENT HOMES

AMID PANDEMIC AND CLIMATE CHANGE

2021 National Shelter Month

Members of the DHSUD Anti-Corruption Committee and DHSUD officials take oath before Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario during the NSM closing ceremony. Christian V. Cabajar

NO TO CORRUPTION: DHSUD officially launches its Anti-Corruption Committee to literally ink its commitment to national government’s campaign against graft and corrupt practices.

Christian V. Cabajar

Secretary Eduardo Del RosarioDHSUD Secretary

212020 DHSUD’S KAPIHANDHSUD’S KAPIHAN

The last quarter of the year must have given us all varying levels of whiplash amid the ongoing pandemic. Still, we continued to

persevere, and bring about positivity, kindness and service to those around us. The same vibes drove the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to keep the public informed through its regular “Kapihan sa DHSUD Housing Matters” virtual talk show.

The last seven episodes had been packed with information, l ight banter and sear-ing dialogues between Assistant Secretary Avelino Tolentino III and Atty. Cristine Bello of DHSUD’s Legal Service, who serve as the ever-lively hosts. The guests, composed of officials from the DHSUD’s bureaus and regional offices, shared information and trivia, which will surely come in handy for the viewers.

Episode 4 opened the 2021 National Shelter Month. This year’s theme further highlighted the role of the DHSUD and its key shelter agencies (KSAs) in providing access to decent, resilient and affordable shelters to Filipino families, especially amid COVID-19 and climate change.

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario spearheaded the opening ceremony together with the depart-ment’s senior officials, led by Undersecretary Marylin Pintor. Also present were heads and

representatives of KSAs, regional offices, partner developers and local government units, among other real estate practitioners and key players in the housing sector.

The housing czar said the celebration’s theme was very timely especially as “our beloved Phil-ippines… has been beset by droughts, rising sea levels and floods, among many natural disas-ters. And, for nearly two years now, the Covid-19 pandemic has been plaguing nations and has forced us to hunker down in our homes.”

In his speech, Secretary Del Rosario reassured Filipino families, especially those in the low-in-come bracket, that they could rely on the DHSUD and its partners in delivering safer and resilient homes amid the challenging times.

Meanwhile, Episode 5 focused on DHSUD’s mandate, services and the people working behind the agency. Guests were Undersecretary Marilyn Pintor, Assistant Secretary Tolentino, and Regional Directors Atty. Jann Roby Otero of Region 4A, Engr. Francis Ordeniza of Region 7 and Atty. Roberto Mauro Palma Gil of Region 11.

Still part of the Shelter Month celebration, the guests tackled the department’s programs on ensuring that every community and home is resil-ient and safe at all times.

Due to quarantine restrictions, Episode 6 of the “Kapihan” was conducted solely via online plat-forms.

With the topic “Building Climate Resil-iency through Urban Plans and Designs,” the episode’s guests were Environmental, Land Use, and Urban Planning and Development Bureau’s (ELUPDB) Urban Development Divi-sion OIC-Chief Roland Dane Carreon, EnP and UN-Habitat Philippines Cities and Climate Change Initiative-Asia Pacific Regional Coordi-nator Maria Adelaida Mias-Cea.

They delved into the integration of the basic concepts and principles of resilient design and development to the CLUPs of LGUs. Speak-ers called upon LGUs and the academe to work together in educating the vulnerable sector on technologies that are essential in building houses that can adapt to the changing climate.

Meanwhile, Episode 7 covered the highlights and various provisions of the revised Implement-ing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of Republic Act 9904, otherwise known as the “Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations.”

As the discussion required expert analysis, Homeowners Association and Community Devel-opment Bureau (HOACDB) OIC-Director Lorina Rigor was invited as a guest.

The revised IRR, which took effect on Octo-ber 25 this year, was thoroughly discussed for the first time during the Kapihan episode. The IRR —formulated due to the issues encountered over the last ten years by the Housing and Land Use Regu-

latory Board and, later on, by the DHSUD — was updated after series of consultations conducted with HOAs, KSAs, real estate developers and agencies concerned with the urban poor.

While explaining the salient features of revised IRR, Director Rigor repeatedly under-scored how imperative it is for LGUs and HOAs to complement each other in the implemen-tation of land regulations, as well as in the conduct of projects.

Episode 8 was likewise packed with remark-able events as it not only witnessed the closing ceremony of this year’s National Shelter Month, but also the launch of the DHSUD Anti-Corruption Committee (ACC) and the ceremonial signing of the anti-corruption wall.

Undersecretary Pintor said, “this year’s cele-bration… took us through a lineup of fun and excit-ing activities. As proven by the numerous virtual seminars and fairs, workshops, exhibitions and community groundbreaking events, this year truly proved to have held one of the most exciting Phil-ippine National Shelter Month celebrations yet.”

Assistant Secretary Tolentino, the ACC chair-person, meanwhile discussed the committee’s role in safeguarding departmental anti-corrup-tion laws, compliance practices and enforcement trends.

Afterward, Secretary Del Rosario administered to the members of the ACC their oath of honesty

and led the signing of the anti-corruption commit-ment wall to literally ink the covenant.

It seemed that one episode was not enough to feature the revised IRR of RA 9904 as it entails numerous provisions. Thus, HOACDB’s Direc-tor Rigor was once again invited to Episode 9 to explain the ordinance, especially its provision on the HOA complaint mechanism.

Director Rigor said that harmony, peace and camaraderie must still be maintained in commu-nity associations because “…forever ay magka-ka-pitbahay kayo kaya’t mas maganda pa rin ang [nagkakasundo] kayo.”

Episode 10 of the “Kapihan” featured the front-line and key services in DHSUD’s regional offices, which are “strategically located in major cities around the country to cater to the sector needs in the localities.” Region 4A Director Jann Roy Otero and Region 12 Director Jennifer Bretaña repre-sented the 16 regional offices in this episode.

Director Otero elucidated on the significance of a DHSUD satellite office in all 16 regions of the Philippines. He said as the economy progresses, the real estate industry is also rapidly developing; therefore, more stakeholders in the regional level are turning to the housing department for assis-tance and guidance.

Meanwhile, Director Bretaña expounded on the functions of the regional offices’ divisions, saying each is a “frontline service provider” to

ensure that the assistance offered by the housing department reaches the masses.

Secretary Del Rosario and Undersecretary Pintor sat down during the last episode of the Kapihan for 2021 and provided a sneak peak of the Department’s milestones for the year. DHSUD KSAs and various stakeholders joined via Zoom.

Apart from the Kapihan sa DHSUD, the Depart-ment has also launched its Kapihan sa Radyo in partnership with the Philippine Broadcasting Service to cater to information needs of those reached by radio. Its content complements the topics of the regular Kapihan to ensure widest dissemination among the various audiences of the sector. It has aired a total of seven episodes since October via Radyo Pilipinas 1 and DHSUD Facebook page, introducing the Department and featuring the services of its key shelter agencies among other programs.

Catch all the “Kapihan” episodes both in the studio and radio as these are available for replay on DHSUD’s social media accounts.

Until the next episode, the “Kapihan” leaves us with its motto — the congenial phrase convey-ing not only an invite to enjoy a cup or two of joe together, but also to share meaningful conversa-tions, lighthearted banters and lasting connec-tions in moments of spontaneity. Tara! Kape tayo, usap tayo!

A caffeine-induced recap on the talk show’s edif ying yet enjoyable episodes

Bottoms up for “Kapihan sa DHSUD”…for now! Guests, anchors and hosts of DHSUD’s stakeholder

engagement forums – Kapihan sa DHSUD: Housing Matters and Kapihan sa Radyo – regularly gather through social media and radio broadcast to bring valuable information on the housing sector to the public.

KIMBERLY C. MALAIT

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MARY JEAN H. ASUM

DHSUD-12 holds first housing summit

DHSUD Secretary joins DHSUD-12 Director Jennifer Bretaña in gracing the culmination event of the SOCCSKSARGEN Housing and Human Settlements Summit. DHSUD officials spearhead the groundbreaking ceremony for a housing project in M’lang, North Cotabato, that will benefit informal settlers and government employees.

Mary Jean H. Asum

The Department of Human Settle-ments and Urban Development Regional Office 12 has rolled out

the first-ever SOCCSKSARGEN Housing and Human Settlements Summit (HHSS) carrying the theme “Pangarap na Buhay dahil sa BALAI: Ligtas at Abot-kayang Paba-hay sa isang Matatag at Maunlad na Komu-nidad.”

In celebration of the National Shelter Month this year, DHSUD-12 launched the event aimed toward expanding its reach, and giving accolade to the housing stake-holders who have been the Department’s staunch supporters in delivering DHSUD’s mandate of providing resilient and afford-able homes to Filipino families, especially amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The week-long celebration featured “Usapang Legit,” a virtual forum on real estate development, policies and best prac-tices, and the adjudication process.

A nother key activity was “BERD-Eyalogo,” a unique virtual forum on new policies, strategies, current trends on building communities and urban spaces

through green, resilient and sustainable development with international, national and local experts invited as resource speakers.

Also carried out in line with the summit was the open house of the 1st SOCCKSAR-GEN housing fair dubbed “Hanap Bahay sa Rehiyon Dose,” which featured “HOME-A-LOAN,” a developers’ exhibit of subdivi-sion projects with housing units for sale. The event was a crowd drawer, though minimum health protocols were strictly observed.

The “HOUSE-OF-US,” meanwhile, exhib-ited the services and programs of key shel-ter agencies, namely the National Housing Authority, the Social Housing Finance Corporation Pag-Ibig Fund, the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation and the Human Settlements Adjudication Commission – with acquired assets being offered for sale and affordable housing loan for minimum wage earners.

The jam-packed week also showcased the first Regional Homeowners Association Summit titled “HOANE DAY” for Hoan and

Hoanas with the theme “Ating Komunidad. Lakas ng Pagkakaisa.”

To top things off, DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario visited the region and spearheaded two groundbreaking ceremo-nies for two housing projects in Koronadal City and M’lang, North Cotabato.

The housing czar likewise led the ceremonial awarding of Certificate of Lot Allocation (CELA) for the 602nd Brigade Housing Project at Camp Edward Lucero, Carmen, Cotabato, along with Undersec-retary Marylin Pintor, Assistant Secre-tary Melissa Aradanas, former Assistant Secretary Leira Buan and Regional Office 12 Director Jennifer Bretaña, among other local officials who graced the occa-sions.

The HHSS ended with an oathtaking ceremony of the officers of the Provin-cial Confederations of HOAs, the Regional Associations of LGU Zoning Officers and Enforcement Officers. It also hosted the launching of the DHSUD-12’s Spatial Data-base of Registered/ License Real Estate Projects and HOA’s: DREAMS-PH.

Nomads no more: Housing project for Malaueg tribe launched

GRACE DE VERA

DHSUD Regional Office 2 Director Grace de Vera joins the LGU officials of Rizal, Cagayan for the groundbreaking and MOA signing of a housing project for the Malaueg tribe. DHSUD-RO2

For centuries, they have been nomadic and contended going around on their own from one place to another.

They were once so simple and yet sophis-tically branded with their distinct cultural heritage. They are the kind of people who, as we must say, should remain unbothered.

But in the light of modernization, members of the Malaueg tribe have gradu-ally come out in the open, engaging them-selves in trading and interactive activities, as well as becoming sociable, reoriented and informed.

It is in this venture that the National Housing Authority (NHA), a key shelter agency of the Department of Human Settle-ments and Urban Development (DHSUD), has tied up with the local government unit

of Rizal, Cagayan, thru Mayor Brenda Ruma to push the P20-million joint housing proj-ect in Brgy. Nanauatan for the 50 beneficia-ries from the Malaueg tribe.

DHSUD Regional Office 2 OIC-Director Grace De Vera and NHA Regional Manager Roderick Ibañez spearheaded the ground-breaking ceremony on October 19, 2021 in conjunction with the National Shelter Month celebration.

Yet, it was never easy to reach the ances-tral domain of this indigenous tribe. But out of love and dedication for the less fortu-nate brothers and sisters, the core team did not stop to explore means to extend their services.

An 800-meter, one-way walk through the muddy riverbank going to the site

made the quest even more exciting and fulfilling. It was also a breathtaking expe-rience riding on a devised cable transpor-tation to cross the river and land to the site at pronto.

The joining of forces among stakeholders is a testament of their commitment to real-ize housing projects despite the odds. This project serves as a springboard of engage-ment and collaboration, as well as produc-tivity for the Malaueg tribe.

Their lives may still be wanting but their aspirations to belong and be heard could mean in different ways. Such a housing grant from the government is a leeway for other agencies to provide other basic needs - not only decent houses of which the DHSUD through the NHA has started.

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Due to its geographical location, the Philippines is vulnerable to tropical storms and frequently

struck by strong typhoons over the course of the year.

Aside from this, previous stud-ies have shown that the country consistently ranks among the top 10 nations with a high climate risk index and is considered by some experts to become one of the most affected by the adverse impact of climate change.

This is why the government, through the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), signed a cooperation agreement with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Philippines to bolster the country’s anti-disaster prepared-ness and post-calamity response.

Finalized in October at the DHSUD Central Office boardroom, the accord is meant to boost partnership in help-ing citizens in areas struck by natu-ral or manmade calamities. Under the pact, finalized in coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitar-ian Assistance, IOM-Philippines will share its expertise in enhancing the country’s Post-Disaster, Early Recov-ery Shelter Framework.

The signing of the agreement, organized by DHSUD’s Public Hous-ing and Settlements Service (PHSS), was held in conjunction with DHSUD’s celebration of the National Shelter Month in October.

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario led the signing with IOM-Phil-ippines Chief of Mission Kristin Dadey via video conference. Joining the housing czar were Assistant Secre-tary Avelino Tolentino III and PHSS OIC-Director Rowena Dineros.

Secretar y Del Rosario said cementing solid partnerships with international organizations in enhanc-ing the Philippines’s disaster-pre-

paredness is crucial especially as the country is prone to different natural and man-made calamities every year. He likewise cited the pact’s pivotal role in extending assistance to Filipino families amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“The signing of this Cooperation Agreement between our agency, the DHSUD and the IOM is a hall-mark occasion especially during the National Shelter Month. It cements the commitment to promote post–disaster recovery policy of the coun-try as a guide for the continuous improvement of the Philippines’ capacity to ensure full recovery of households and communities after environmental hazards,” Secretary Del Rosario said.

For her part, IOM-Philippines’ Dadey thanked the Philippine government, through DHSUD, for its initiative in seal-ing their partnership aimed at promoting shelter recovery in the country.

The IOM-Philippines commits to provide capacity building support to DHSUD in enhancing government

programs to safeguard vulnera-ble communities against natural or manmade disasters. It will also carry out training programs and assist in developing local shelter plans of LGUs nationwide that integrates the Shelter Framework.

The two agencies agreed to enhance information exchange, hold constant dialogues and formal consul-tations, as well as jointly monitor the progress of their shared programs.

Safeguarding vulnerable communities: DHSUD, IOM ink key pact

CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario signs a Cooperation Agreement with IOM Philippines via Zoom.

Christian V. Cabajar

This, after the Social Housing Finance Corpora-tion (SHFC) held a ceremonial turnover of housing units in Marangal Village Homeowners Associa-tion, Inc. in Brgy. Longos, Malaboon and Samahang Magkakapitbahay na Nagkakaisa (SAMGBANAI) Homeowners Association, Inc in Barangay San Agustin in Novaliches, Quezon City on November 10.

SHFC President Atty. Arnolfo Cabling and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Sec. Eduardo del Rosario led the turnover, with Malabon Mayor Antolin Aquino Oreto III and Quezon City Mayor Josefina Belmonte join-ing in their respective constituency. SHFC Execu-tive Vice President Atty. Junefe Payot and SHFC Recovery Projects Vice President Annicia Villa-fuerte also graced the activities.

Marangal Village has four three-story buildings that will house a total of 282 families. Each house-hold will occupy a 22m-unit with a loft.

The construction of the P126.9-million project started in November 2018. SAMGBANAI, on the other hand, is composed of one four-story building featuring 20 units on the ground floor and 24 units each from the second to the top floor. Construction work at the P41.1-million initiative began in March 2019.

A total of 282 families from Marangal Village in Malabon City will soon call these four three-story buildings their own home.

Both projects are classified under SHFC’s High Density Housing (HDH) program, a slum redevelop-ment strategy wherein legally organized informal settler families are accommodated in multi-story buildings. The beneficiaries of this program are those living in danger zones and waterways in

SHFC turns over 370 housing units to Malabon, Quezon City families

urbanized cities in the National Capital Region. Over 42,000 families have received secured

homes through the HDH as of September this year. Meanwhile, the Community Mortgage Program, SHFC’s flagship housing initiative, has benefitted about 380,000 families across the country through over P18.8 billion in loan assistance since 1989.

After over two years of construction, this four-story building is ready to accommodate some 92 families from SAMGBANAI Homeowners Association, Inc. in Quezon City.

A total of 282 families from Marangal Village in Malabon City will soon call these four three-story buildings their own home.

Social Housing Finance Corporation

More than 370 families who used to live along the

danger zones in Malabon and Quezon City will soon move

into their own safe and decent homes, a timely development

amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.

24

ALLAN MERIN

2726

Ano ang ibig sabihin para sa iyo ng ligtas at matatag na tahanan at pamayanan?

Hermito Africano: Para sa akin ang ligtas at maayos na pamayanan ay sumasaklaw sa pangangailangan ng isang pamayanan na binubuo ng mga barangay at kung natutu-gunan ng pamahalaan ang mga pangangail-angan ng bawat pamayanan. Gusto naming magkaroon ng covered court, patubig, kalsada, at marami pang iba. Makapag-dudulot ito ng kaginhawaan at ligtas na pamayanan at pag-unlad ng aming mga kabuhayan.

Amelita Molina: ‘Yung may tahanan ka na masasabi mo na sa’yo talaga at ‘di hirap kaming mga taong nag-uupa lang at nasa tamang loca-tion na ‘di bahain. Sana makamit din namin ang kaginhawaan na ‘yung binabayad namin sa upa ay napupunta talaga sa bahay namin talaga.

Jess Austria: Para sa’kin ang ligtas na pamayanan, ‘yung makakatulog ka ng mahimbing sa gabi dahil alam mong ligtas sa magnanakaw at akyat-bahay at fully safe and secure ang iyong lugar.

Ariel Dolorico: Ligtas ka kung maayos ang pamumuhay mo at may sarili kang bahay, may mga kapitbahay na matitino, may barangay at kapulisan na umiikot sa inyong lugar at ‘yung aming HOA ay aktibo.

Negruz Zauruz Vvj: Ang “ligtas at matatag na tahanan” ay ang malayo sa mga danger areas ang tahanan, may security of tenure, may nagmamahalang pamilya, may peace and order, may unity ang neighborhood, at may transparency and good governance.

Mark Benedict: Masasabing “ligtas at matatag ang tahanan at pamayanan” kung may matuwid at maayos na namumuno sa loob ng

tahanan at pamayanan. Kung may maayos na daanan, drainage, mga poste ng kuryente at mga kable. Ang pamunuan at lahat ng miyem-bro ay may sinusunod na iisang batas.

Lolit Tolentino: Masarap sa pakiramdam na nakatira ka sa sarili mong tahanan hindi mo na iisipin ang bayarin kada due date ng inuupa-han mo at masarap din pong itira ang lola ko sa sarili kong bahay.

Marilyn Ventura: Ito po ‘yung sitwasyon na ‘di ka na mangangamba ng iyong bahay ay pwedeng gibain dahil sa demolisyon. Maayos na koneksyon para sa tubig at ilaw. Malapit sa basic services – pambulikong pamilihan, ospi-taĺ, paaralan at maayos at magandang samhan ng mga HOA. Ligtas na kapaligiran para sa kabataan.

Vanessa Mabilangan: Ang “ligtas at matatag na tahanan” para sakin ay ang pagkakaroon ng maayos at disenteng tahanan kung saan sama-sama ang isang pamilya na mamuhay ng tahi-mik at may pagmamahalan sa pangunguna ng Diyos sa buhay.

Jimmy Fuentes: “Ligtas at maatatag na tahanan at pamayanan” kung ang lupa na pagtatayuan ng bahay ay mayroong legal at organisadong HOA at dumaan sa tamang proseso ng lot acquisition at matatag ang construction materials at may maayos na subdivision plan na may road networks at basic services, at ang lupa ay nasa residen-tial classification.

Marietta P. Gonzales: Isang pamayanan na ang mga tao ay nagkakaisa, may kanya-kanyang bahay at pamilya. Pamilya na ang pundasyon ay ang pagmamahalan, sama-samang lumalaban

at humaharap sa anumang hamon sa buhay kaya nagiging matatag ang tahanan. Ang bawat pamilya ay ligtas sa loob at labas ng kanilang tahanan kung may pamayanan na ang bawat isa nagtutulungan.

Marilyn Pelindiana Villastiqui: Para sa akin, dapat po ang bawat isa sa atin ay kinakaki-taan ng pagiging responsable, may respeto at disiplina unang-una po dapat sa sarili at pangalawa po sa kapwa para po sa kaaya-ayang tahanan at pamayanan.

Virgie Alis: Para sa akin ang ligtas na tahanan at matatag na pamayanan ay kapag walang problemang iniisip sa tinitirhan.

AG Arlene Leyte Giljang: It means na safe sa lahat, it has a strong foundation to protect us from storm and earthquake, and good loca-tion.

James Earl Asas: A safe and resilient housing and communities means that it is away from any hazard but accessible to urban areas to reach work and school. There must be also a security of tenure, access to utilities, and access to transit stations.

Dave Rosendal Hayahay: May sariling bahay na matibay, para ligtas sa mga sakuna at ‘di na mangungupahan pa. Unahin lagi ang pami-lya at habaan lagi ang pang unawa sa isat-isa. Sumunod sa batas at ‘wag maging sakit ng ulo sa inyong komunidad.

Dennis Galicia: Home for a family living in a solid foundation of a peaceful community. This is their starting point where the initiative of DHSUD in developing decent, afford-able and peaceful community.

D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1VOX POP

Colliers Philippines expects recovery in residential demand to rely on a projected rebound in office leasing, macroeco-nomic recovery, sustained remittances from overseas Fili-

pino workers, competitive mortgage rates, attractive and flexible payment schemes and a pick-up in business and consumer senti-ment. An accelerated vaccination program should support these factors and encourage more businesses to reopen and expand.

In our view, the projected pick-up in residential completion in 2021 partly indicates a rebound of the secondary residential market in Metro Manila. Colliers believes that an aggressive delivery of new condominium units is crucial especially for a supply-driven market like Metro Manila. This should benefit both major business hubs and fringe areas.

Aside from lining up launches to maximize pent up demand, developers should be aggressive in utilizing online platforms and improving amenities to cater to discerning preferences.

Condo completion Colliers expects the completion of 10,061 new units in 2021, up 200 percent from the 3,370 condo units completed in 2020. We anticipate the delivery of about 7,500 units per year from 2021 to 2025.

Much needed boost Colliers expects take-up to gradually pick up due to our projected recovery in office leasing complemented by other enablers. Cash remittances from OFWs grew 6.3 percent to $12.3 billion from January to May 2021. Remittances are among the primary drivers of residential demand, particularly in the affordable to mid-income price segments.

We also see the ramped-up vaccination program buoying demand as this is likely to spur an accelerated reopening of busi-nesses and absorption of office space. This should contribute to a recovery of investor sentiment as the government aims to achieve herd immunity by the first quarter of 2022 which should inject a much needed boost to the residential sector.

Sweetening the potTo lift demand in the pre-selling market, some devel-

opers are offering discounts and promos. Aside from attractive payment schemes, developers are also sweetening their market-ing strategies by offering freebies like appliances and gift certif-icates.

We continue to see an uptick in the demand of affordable to mid-income properties near transport hubs. Innovative payment schemes and proximity to infrastructure projects are luring buyers and investors to acquire residential units in the fringes of major business districts.

JOEY ROI BONDOC

COLLIERS INSIGHTS

From the public

DHSUD says...

@inquirerdotnet | Philippine Daily Inquirer

When a home is a place to find tranquil-ity, love and harmony, it is always a pleas-ant sanctuary to retire for a long day’s chaos. Every shelter should provide its inhabitants the safety and comfort one’s soul is long-ing for after a tiring endeavor in the world outside its confines.

For DHSUD, a shelter’s safety and resil-ience go beyond the aesthetics in physical qualities. More than the sturdy pillars around and tear-proof roofs above our head, we should feel safe and secure while inside our dwelling places. Its walls should embrace us with protection as we rest for the night and

celebrate everyday’s blessings with family and friends.

The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change challenges have certainly required us to rethink our strategies and prepare for emerging challenges of times. We have seen the importance of running to a home every

family can call their own to shield them from the harms and dangers we constantly face in our everyday lives.

Hence, we are doubling our efforts to scrutinize every housing project that we establish to ensure its compliance to existing but responsive standards on

structures, access to basic services and infrastructures and potential for economic growth. Also, it must guarantee safety from all kinds of threats and prepared-ness of everyone to respond and bounce back when needed.

With unity among its members, the hous-

ing community itself must be empowered to attain sustainability in an environment conducive to individual and wholistic devel-opment.

During trying times, it is the DHSUD’s commitment to provide safe and resilient shelters as refuge to come to.

28

List of IssuancesTo access details of the orders and guidelines, please visit our website dhsud.gov.ph

Despite the pandemic, the last quarter of the year has been extra busy for DHSUD, as reflected in our presence in the public sphere. Thanks to our media partners who never fail to support our advocacies in the

housing and urban development sector since we started. We owe you big time! Cheers to more years of partnership in serving the public!

MEDIA CORNER

EXTRAS D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

In commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the world, the victory of Lapu-Lapu in the Battle of Mactan

and other historic events that transpired from 1519 to 1522, the DHSUD through its Environ-mental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Devel-opment Bureau held a webinar on June 14.

Themed “Philippine Human Settlements and Town Planning during the Spanish and Post-Span-ish Periods: Learnings and Insights,” the webinar was organized by the agency in close coordina-tion with the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC), the main convenor of the celebration by virtue of Executive Order 55.

“Recognizing the massive role of the last 500 years in shaping our country’s history, we aim to provide a glimpse of the conditions of human settlements and the intricacies of urban planning in the Philippines during and after the Spanish colonization era,” DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario said in a video message.

History researcher Juvelyn Nierves from the National Historical Commission, Licensed Land-scape Architect Paulo Alcazaren and Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners College Fellow Environmental Planner Roque Magno served as the resource speakers.

As the country continues to grapple with the ill effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for added protec-

tion against the virus has been highlighted more than ever.

To ensure health and wellness of employ-ees the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) part-nered with the Quezon City LGU for a mass vaccination among its ranks.

On September 10, DHSUD person-nel, including security guards and util-ity staff, received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine during a mass inocula-tion drive held at the Central Office park-ing lot. Employees who got their first jab earlier in June were administered their second dose.

Based on data from the DHSUD Clinic, 440 personnel – 331 from DHSUD and 109 from the Human Settlements Adjudication Commission Central Office – are now fully vaccinated.

DHSUD has been strictly adhering to health protocols issued by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging

Infectious Diseases in line with govern-ment-led efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Under the leadership of Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario, the Department, along with its attached agency HSAC, created a joint task force responsi-ble for enforcing health protocols to ensure the safety of personnel.

The online webinar for the 2021 Quincentennial Celebrations feature two interrelated topics on planning of human settlements during the Spanish and Post-Spanish periods in Philippine history.

Peter Fraginal

DHSUD celebrates 2021 Quincentennial CommemorationsKIMBERLY MALAIT

Anti-COVID war: Most DHSUD employees now fully vaccinated

CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

A total of 440 DHSUD and HSAC employees receive the complete doses of vaccine against COVID-19 during onsite inoculation activities in partnership with the Quezon City government for the department employees’ added health protection.

November 24, 2021Providing for Another One (1)-Year Additional Period of Completion for All Projects Registered and Licensed with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development or the Housing and Land Use Regulatory board that were affected by Stoppage of Development during the Community Quarantine Periods

September 15, 2021The 2021 Revised IRR of Republic Act No. 9904, otherwise known as Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners Associations

Department Order No. 2021-006 Department Order No. 2021-009

July 26, 2021Guidelines on the Evaluation and Indorsement of Requests for Travel Ban Exemption of Foreign Nationals

Department Order No. 2021-007

November 25, 2021Adopting and Implementing the BALAi Filipino Public Housing as Alternative Secure Housing Tenure

Department Order No. 2021-010

November 24, 2021Authorizing the Issuance of the Temporary License to Sell and Providing for the Conditions and Guidelines for Its Issuance

Department Order No. 2021-008

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3030 BANGON MARAWI D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

they are already funded and for imple-mentation by the concerned agencies,” he added.

DELIVERING GOOD WORKThough faced with numerous challenges, including the almost daily heavy down-pours hampering the rehabilitation efforts, the TFBM held its ground and stuck to the Master Development Plan in carrying out construction works.

In visiting Marawi from December 1 to this year, Secretary Del Rosario, along with TFBM Field Office Manager Assis-tant Secretary Felix Castro Jr. and DHSUD Undersecretary Zyril Carlos, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra, TFBM officials, representatives from the LGU and officials from partner agencies, conducted day-long inspections of ongoing projects.

Among the facilities they visited were the Marawi City Jail, which is now more than 90% complete, as well as the Rizal Park inside the Most Affected Area (MAA) or “ground zero” where the School of Living Traditions and Marawi Museum are likewise situated.

The TFBM chief also formally turned over the iconic Grand Mosque to the

administrators, led by the Pangarungan and Alonto clans.

From the Rizal Park, the TFBM chief witnessed the progress of the Marawi Convention Center, mall-like Grand Padian Market, Sarimanok Sports Complex, Lake Promenade and Marawi Peace Memorial – all of which are most likely to be completed in the following weeks.

Secretary Del Rosario then graced the breaking of ground for the construction of the Bulk Water Facility spearheaded by the Local Water Utilities Administration that will supply five million liters of pota-ble water inside MAA.

The TFBM chief likewise inspected the ongoing construction of the Marawi Inte-

grated School buildings and slaughterhouse, and inaugurated the Barangay Raya Madaya 1 Complex with a health station and madrasah.

He also visited the permanent shelter projects in Barangays Patani and Kilala that are jointly being undertaken by the National Housing Authority, Social Hous-ing Finance Corporation and UN-Habitat.

The construction of road networks, on the other hand, is now in the final stages of completion.

MORE MARAWI IDPS SET TO RETURN HOMEMost families of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the MAA are likely to start the New Year rebuilding or refurbish-ing their homes.

Title... | From page ?

Secretary Del Rosario announced that the TFBM had agreed with the Marawi LGU to expedite the release of building permits to about 1,500 applicants and allow them to rebuild their homes.

“Basically, complete na ang documen-tation, ‘yung go signal na lang ng office of building official ang hinihintay,” the TFBM chief said, noting the meticulous process the LGU is observing to ensure safety and establish legal ownership of properties to avoid future dispute.

“Hopefully by the third week of Decem-ber, this can be cleared already. And we expect that by January (2022), hundreds or even a thousand can already start the construction or repair of their houses,” he added.

Of the more than 2,200 who applied for building permits, more than 300 are now repairing their houses while 1,500 are awaiting go signal from the LGU.

“Basically, their applications are already complete and the LGU is ready to release the building permits pending final inspec-tion and assessment to determine the structural integrity of the structures,” the TFBM chair explained.

Secretary Del Rosario and Mayor Gandamra also agreed to create several teams to conduct simultaneous final assessment and inspection of the subject structures in Sectors 4 to 7 to allow the IDPs to start rebuilding their homes.

So far, TFBM has allowed the return of IDPs from Sectors 1 to 3 – composed of three barangays out of the 24 situated inside MAA or the ground zero.

AGENTS OF PROGRESS, CATALYST OF CHANGELast October, President Duterte person-ally led the commemoration of the fourth anniversary of Marawi’s liberation from terrorist influence.

In his message, the Commander-in-Chief commended the members of TFBM, led by Secretary Del Rosario, for their unwavering commitment to bring back the glory of the nation’s only Islamic City.

“It is my pleasure to join you today as we mark this historic occasion by allowing the rays of hope to light up the darkness that once enveloped the city of Marawi. I congratulate and commend the Task Force Bangon Marawi, as well the local officials and other partners, for working together to rehabilitate the city,” President Duterte said.

According to the P resident , the TFBM and its implementing agencies have been steadfast in rebuilding the lives of displaced families, as well as in restoring damaged properties and revitalizing disrupted socioeconomic activities.

“You have stayed true to your commit-ment as agents of progress and catalyst for

change,” he stressed, vowing that all ongo-ing projects meant to ensure the city’s return to progress will be completed the soonest possible time.

Joining the President to mark the special occasion were Senators Chris-topher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, and other Cabinet members.

According to Secretary Del Rosario, the President’s visit to Marawi is very signif-icant as he was able to convey his full support to the rehabilitation and witness first-hand what the TFBM has achieved so far.

President Duterte also witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony of the Depart-ment of Information and Communications Technology Telecommunication Building in Barangay Datu Naga and the virtual signing of a pact meant for the reconstruc-tion of the Bubong Madaya Mosque.

In the same event, the TFBM chief led the turnover of 250 permanent housing units in Pamayandeg sa Ranao Residences at Dansalan in Barangays Kilala and Mipantao Gandongan with the National Housing Authority, UN-Habitat and the government of Japan.

A wreath-laying ceremony was also held at Kampo Ranao in honor of soldiers, as well as civilians, who sacrificed their lives in warding off the terrorists during the five-month siege.

This scenery with the Lake Lanao in the backdraft is the former “ground zero” or the most affected area during the 2017 Marawi siege. Now, modern public infrastructures like barangay complexes with madrasahs and health centers, the mall-like Grand Padian Market, the Peace Memorial and the Sarimanok Sports Complex are sprouting - slowly transforming the area into a promising tourism site.

Mario J. Mallari

Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario inside a model house as he inspects the progress of a permanent shelter project in Barangay Patani during one of his visits in Marawi. UN-Habitat and SHFC are jointly undertaking the housing project intended for internally displaced persons.

Mario J. Mallari

President Rodrigo Duterte commends the efforts of the Task Force Bangon Marawi and its implementing agencies in the rehabilitation of the country’s lone Islamic city, citing them as ‘agents of progress and catalyst for change.’

Philippine Information Agency

Marawi rehab... | From page 32

I am very satisfied with what I saw, and I thank the implementing agencies for their hard work to meet the deadline despite the numerous challenges”

Eduardo D. Del RosarioDHSUD Secretary and TFBM Chairman

3232 BANGON MARAWI

Marawi rehab in final stages of completion

D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 1

CHRISTIAN V. CABAJAR

Story continued on PAGE 30

menting agencies in unison with key shelter agencies and partner organizations, is now about 85% complete.

The housing czar declared this during his latest visit to Marawi in December, conveying gratitude to those involved in the rehabilitation works. He likewise expressed optimism that the rehabilitation of the Islamic city will mostly likely be completed within the term of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

“I am very satisfied with what I saw, and I thank the imple-menting agencies for your hard work to meet your deadline despite the numerous challenges,” said Secretary Del Rosario.

“I am certain that we can finish at least 95% of all major infra projects by June 2022, and I can assure everyone that the few remaining projects will surely be completed because

The job is almost done, but the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) is not

one to call it a day yet.

After months of tireless efforts in rebuilding the country’s lone Islamic City from the destruction caused by the 2017 siege, Marawi continues to move forward to normalcy. The Maranaos, especially those displaced by the armed conflict, are now enjoying the initial fruits of the massive govern-ment-led rehabilitation.

TFBM Chairman Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario said the rebuilding process, led by the Task Force and its 56 imple- Story continued on PAGE 30

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte looks at the scale model of the terrain of Marawi City as National Housing Authority General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr. shows the location of the ongoing projects under the Marawi Rehabilitation Program during the commemoration of the 4th Anniversary of the liberation of Marawi at the Rizal Park inside Marawi City’s ‘ground zero’ on October 16, 2021. With them are Senator Christopher Lawrence Go and Task Force Bangon Marawi chairperson and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario. Karl Alonzo/Presidential Photo