Gov’t urged to hear OFW’s clamor for decent homes

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the sector pouring millions of dollars in remittances into the country, should have an equal opportunity to acquire decent homes for their families.

This was one of the key advocacies pushed by OFW Partylist Representative Marissa Del Mar Magsino during the 29th National Real Estate Association (NREA) and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) National Convention, themed "Elevating Philippine Real Estate Innovation, Sustainability, and Inclusive Growth," held on 7 March 2025 at the Makati Sports Club.

During the discussion, Magsino emphasized the important role of OFWs in real estate development, particularly as prime movers of the economy through their remittances.

She also stressed that the government and industry must listen to the needs of the OFW sector for decent yet affordable housing.

“In collaboration with stakeholders, we continue to strengthen our initiatives to ensure that no OFW or their families are left behind from their return home to reintegration,” she said.

Approximately 400 participants, including local government unit (LGU) executives, real estate professionals, and industry experts, attended the forum.

The event began with the official opening by chairperson Imelda Magtoto, followed by welcoming remarks from NREA national president Atty. Amador Tolentino Jr., who emphasized NREA's commitment to advancing the real estate sector.

According to NREA executive vice president and overall convention chairperson Loren Sales, key highlights of the convention included strong LGU participation.

The convention saw significant involvement from LGUs, with mayors, governors, and representatives actively engaging in discussions, underscoring the crucial role of local governance in housing development.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino “Jerry” Acuzar, represented by Undersecretary Randy Escolango, delivered a pivotal keynote address.

Expert panels addressed critical issues such as strengthening local governance in housing, leveraging OFWs in real estate, regulatory updates, and sustainable urban development, with prominent speakers including DILG Assistant Secretary Elizabeth de Leon, Rep. Magsino, and Architect Felino Palafox.

Afternoon sessions on Day 1 focused on regulatory updates and private sector engagement, providing crucial insights on the RPVARA (Real Property Valuation and Assessment Reform Act), the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pamilyang Pilipino (4PH) program, and the House of Representatives’ agenda to address the housing situation. These discussions fostered a collaborative approach between the government and private sector.

Comprehensive panel discussions on Day 2 included topics such as "Compliance and Real Estate Development" and "Inclusive, Sustainable, Resilient, and Connected Real Estate Community with Emerging Markets, Technologies, and Innovations."

These discussions featured leaders from Pag-IBIG Fund, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, the Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments, DHSUD, the Proptech Consortium of the Philippines, Colliers International, the Philippine Green Building Council, and Meralco.

Throughout the convention, there was a strong emphasis on sustainable and resilient city development, the integration of emerging technologies, and the promotion of inclusive growth within the real estate sector.

“The 29th NREA-DHSUD National Convention has been a resounding success, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration,” said Magtoto, chairperson of the Convention.

“We are confident that the insights and strategies shared during this event will contribute significantly to the advancement of the Philippine real estate sector, fostering innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth,” she added.

The NREA and DHSUD reiterated their commitment to working together to address the nation’s housing challenges and promote a vibrant and sustainable real estate industry.