DHSUD Prioritizes Fast Resolution of Homebuyers Complaints
The newly appointed Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon P. Aliling has called for the swift processing and resolution of homebuyers complaints against property developers. His directive aims to improve how the agency handles issues faced by buyers of subdivision and condominium projects.
Aliling issued a department circular titled “Providing for the Expeditious Handling and Disposition of Buyers’ Complaints against Developers of Subdivision and Condominium Projects,” which mandates faster response times and effective handling of complaints. This circular came as one of his first official acts after being sworn in by the president on May 29.
The secretary emphasized the importance of timely solutions for homebuyers, stating, “Homebuyers and other real estate clients encountering problems deserve better from DHSUD. Malaking bagay po na mapabilis natin ang resolution ng kanilang mga problema na inihaharap sa atin.”
He further added that the agency must explore all available options to address concerns fairly, transparently, and quickly, minimizing any additional stress or financial burden on homebuyers.
Mechanism to Streamline Complaint Handling
To ensure accountability and prompt action, the DHSUD’s regional offices are now required to submit bi-weekly status reports on complaints to the central office. This measure aims to monitor progress and guarantee that homebuyers’ issues are addressed efficiently.
Aliling also revealed plans to create a direct mechanism for complaints to reach the Office of the Secretary swiftly. He assured that the department will also study how to assist homeowners associations in resolving their issues before escalating to legal disputes.
“Magkakaroon po tayo ng mekanismo kung paano po makakarating sa Office of the Secretary ang inyong mga reklamo at aaksyunan po yan ng mabilis. Isama na rin po natin dito yung mga problema ng mga homeowners association—aaralin natin paano makatulong ang DHSUD sa inyong mga problema para hindi na po kayo umabot sa demandahan,” he said.
Leadership and Background of Secretary Aliling
Sources familiar with the matter noted that Secretary Aliling brings extensive technical expertise and a solid track record from both government service and the private sector. A civil engineer by profession, he previously served as DHSUD Undersecretary and played a key role in advancing the government’s flagship housing initiative, the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.
He has held leadership positions in prominent organizations such as the Philippine Red Cross and the Confederation of Filipino Consulting Organizations. His achievements include being named one of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) for Civil Engineering in 2015 and receiving the Lasallian Achievement Award in 2021. Earlier in his career, he was the youngest Board Adviser at De La Salle University.
During his oath-taking, Aliling vowed to uphold “zero tolerance” for corruption within the department.
Continuity and Vision for DHSUD
Aliling succeeds Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who was appointed Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Urban Development. His immediate focus is to ensure that developers fulfill their commitments to homebuyers and to improve the responsiveness of the DHSUD in addressing client concerns.
With these reforms, the department aims to protect homeowners’ rights and foster a more transparent and efficient real estate sector.
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