DoJ forms team to prosecute squatting syndicates

The Department of Justice (DoJ) has formed a committee of prosecutors to strengthen the investigation and prosecution of professional squatters and squatting syndicates, the agency said.

DoJ Undersecretary Raul T. Vasquez announced the committee’s formation during the third-quarter meeting of the National Drive Against Professional Squatters and Squatting Syndicates (NDAPSSS) at the DoJ Justice Hall in Manila.

The committee consists of designated state prosecutors and prosecution attorneys. Assistant Secretary Robert Nomar V. Leyretana will serve as assistant supervising officer, while Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Marmarie P. Satin-Vivas will coordinate with the NDAPSSS.

The meeting, led by Vasquez, DHSUD Undersecretary Roman Nicholo S.E. Molina and NDAPSSS Director Ryan A. Jaen, covered updates on cases, emerging concerns and interagency actions.

Officials also discussed technical assistance in Las Piñas City, Carmona City and Malabon City; coordination with Metro Manila local governments to establish or reactivate local committees against professional squatters and squatting syndicates; and the draft implementing rules and regulations of Executive Order 153, issued in 2002.

The campaign operates under Republic Act 7279, or the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992, also known as the Lina Law, and Executive Order 153.

Under the framework, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development identifies professional squatters and squatting syndicates, the DoJ handles prosecution, the National Police Task Force undertakes apprehensions, and the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor provides secretariat support.

The initiative is intended to address organized squatting while protecting the rights of legitimate beneficiaries of government housing programs.