By Anthony Ian H. Reyes
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — The protection of homebuyers remains a top priority for the Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC)—formerly the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB)—under the leadership of lawyer Ligaya G. Liclican-Haban, chief regional adjudicator for Region 1.
At the Kapihan sa Ilocos held on October 27, 2025, Liclican-Haban outlined the agency’s efforts to safeguard consumers amid rising cases of illegal real estate activities in the region.
The event, part of the National Shelter Month 2025 celebration, highlighted the crucial role of HSAC in resolving disputes between homeowners and developers, especially in light of the government’s flagship housing initiative—the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH).
With the government striving to close the housing gap, HSAC continues to strengthen its mechanisms for conciliation and mediation, ensuring that homebuyers’ rights are upheld throughout real estate transactions.
Liclican-Haban said that HSAC’s role includes regulating transactions, settling disputes, and ensuring fair and transparent dealings between buyers and developers.
“As the 4PH initiative expands, protecting homebuyers from unscrupulous developers and unlicensed brokers becomes increasingly vital,” Liclican-Haban said.
The discussion also emphasized the significance of Presidential Decree No. 957, or the Subdivision and Condominium Buyer’s Protective Decree, which requires developers and real estate practitioners to register with the government.
The decree ensures that buyers are protected from fraud and that property transactions remain transparent and legitimate.
For many Filipinos, the message was simple yet powerful: they have the right to protection when investing in what is often their most valuable asset, a house.
Liclican-Haban urged homebuyers to remain vigilant and ensure that brokers and developers are properly registered and compliant with national regulations.
“It’s essential that consumers assert their rights. Before purchasing property, verify that the developer holds valid licenses and that the broker is legally registered,” she advised.
The event also tackled the challenges and legal processes needed to uphold buyer protection, with colorum (illegal) brokers remaining a persistent issue in the region’s real estate sector.
Pangasinan was identified as the most affected province in Region 1, with over 50 cases filed against illegal recruiters.
HSAC, in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the National Housing Authority (NHA), continues to enforce consumer protection laws and promote safe homeownership for Filipino families.
The forum reiterated that the government’s housing program is not only about building homes, but also about ensuring security and fairness for every aspiring homeowner.
As the event concluded, participants were encouraged to reach out to HSAC for guidance and assistance regarding housing concerns.
For inquiries or concerns, you may contact HSAC Region 1 through its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HSACRAB1, via email at rab1@hsac.gov.ph; or visit its office located on the 1st and 3rd Floors of Doña Pepita Building, Quezon Avenue, Barangay II, San Fernando City, La Union.
“We are here to help,” Liclican-Haban said, reaffirming HSAC’s commitment to public service and consumer protection.
Through this initiative, HSAC Region 1 remains a steadfast advocate for homebuyers’ rights, ensuring that the dream of owning a safe, affordable home becomes a reality for every Filipino. (CCMT/AIHR, PIA Region 1)
