Two measures promoting on-site resettlement for informal settler families (ISFs) and granting loan relief to delinquent low-income housing borrowers have been introduced in the Senate.
Senator Bam Aquino, who filed Senate Bill Nos. 1861 and 1863, said on Friday the measures seek to amend the Urban Development and Housing Act and to establish a time-bound restructuring and condonation program for socialized and low-cost housing loans.
Under Senate Bill No. 1861, relocation options would follow a clear order of preference, prioritizing on-site, in-city, and near-city resettlement before off-city transfer.
“It institutionalizes a clear order of preference in resettlement, prioritizing on-site, in-city, and near-city options before off-city relocation, so families can remain close to jobs and opportunities,” Aquino said.
He added that “by mandating adequate consultation, integrating livelihood support, clarifying inter-agency responsibilities, and reinforcing safeguards against forced eviction, the bill transforms existing principles into concrete, operational standards.”
Meanwhile, Senate Bill No. 1863 or the proposed Housing Loan Condonation Act, covers delinquent housing loans under the National Housing Authority, Social Housing Finance Corporation, National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation, and the Philippine Guarantee Corporation.
“By giving struggling families a realistic path to recover their housing loans, this measure strengthens communities, prevents unnecessary displacement, and safeguards prior government investments in socialized housing,” Aquino said. (PNA)
