Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling officially swore in the new leadership of the National Real Estate Association (NREA), one of the country’s cornerstones in the Philippine property sector, held at the DHSUD Auditorium on Wednesday, marking a pivotal chapter for the organization as it strengthens its role in addressing the nation’s housing needs.

The newly sworn-in delegation was led by a distinguished panel of industry veterans: Imelda Magtoto, Board Chairlady; Atty. Amador Tolentino, Jr., Board Vice Chairman and Ma. Loren Sales, National President.

Secretary Aliling lauded NREA for its consistent dedication to the ‘Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH)’ Program.

He emphasized the department’s commitment to "horizontal housing" and the "streamlining of regulatory processes"—key areas where NREA’s private-sector expertise is deemed vital.

Under the banner theme “Anchored in Purpose, Expanding Our Impact,” the new leadership signaled a commitment to not only maintaining its role as an industry pillar but also scaling its influence to reach more Filipino families in need of quality housing, alongside other influential organizations such as the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association, the Organization of Socialized and Economic Housing Developers of the Philippines, and the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders' Associations, Inc.

NREA serves as a critical strategic bridge, connecting private developers with government regulators.

By advocating for policies that promote housing growth and economic stability, the association ensures that the interests of both the industry and the Filipino homebuyer are represented at the highest levels of governance.

Following the ceremony, the NREA Board of Officers, Trustees, and Advisers proceeded to a high-priority Courtesy Call and Meeting with Congressman Romero F.S. Quimbo, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means and a senior member of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development.

Congressman Quimbo, assured of his commitment to support NREA

The discussion centered on reconnecting, the legislative roadmap for 2026, specifically: the tax and incentives for housing.   Policy Updates which is reviewing the implementation of current housing laws and the potential for new subsidies to bridge the affordability gap. And the incentive streamlining, aligning legislative efforts with recent BIR memorandum orders to reduce the "cost of compliance" for developers.

NREA is one of the Philippines' premier real estate organizations. For decades, it has been at the forefront of the industry, providing a platform for professional growth, ethical practice, and proactive advocacy for a more sustainable and inclusive Philippine property market. (RAFFY AYENG)