Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling plans to strengthen the agency’s regulatory role, signaling a broader approach beyond the government’s ongoing mass housing efforts.

Speaking during a media briefing on Monday, Aliling stressed the importance of exercising tighter oversight over real estate developers, practitioners and homeowners’ associations, alongside the continued implementation of the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

“We’re taking this seriously. The issue over the past three years was that DHSUD became too focused on 4PH,” Aliling said. “But we’re also a regulatory body — we’re here to serve unit buyers, developers, and other stakeholders.”

“So we’re going to catch up and give these areas the attention they deserve,” he added.

Aliling’s remarks signal a shift in direction for DHSUD, which has largely concentrated on accelerating housing output under 4PH since the start of the current administration.

While the housing backlog remains a pressing concern, the new DHSUD chief emphasized that regulatory enforcement is equally essential to ensure accountability and public trust in the sector.

Created under Republic Act 11201, DHSUD is mandated to oversee the housing, human settlements, and urban development landscape. Its primary responsibilities include formulating and enforcing rules and standards for subdivisions, condominiums, and other real estate projects. The agency also has the authority to impose administrative sanctions and penalties against violators.

Another core function of DHSUD is the registration, regulation, and supervision of homeowners’ associations. This includes addressing internal disputes and ensuring that associations adhere to relevant laws and guidelines.

The department is also responsible for overseeing land use planning across local government units, which includes monitoring compliance with Comprehensive Land Use Plans and zoning ordinances and establishing penalties for violations.

Looking ahead, Aliling said he intends to modernize DHSUD operations by streamlining processes and adopting digital solutions to improve transparency and efficiency.

“In the remaining three years of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term, we will review everything and make sure nothing is left behind,” Aliling said. “Whatever is mandated in our charter, we will fulfill.”

The renewed focus on regulatory enforcement is expected to bring long-overdue reforms to the housing and real estate sector while sustaining the momentum of the national housing program.