DHSUD eyes 'express lanes' in all gov't agencies for housing-related permits
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling (File photo: DHSUD)
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) will be setting up express lanes for the processing of all requirements and permits under the government’s mass housing program.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said they are now coordinating with concerned government agencies for the establishment of "express lanes" for all mass housing-related requirements.
“Our goal is to ensure fast, transparent and reliable services to further streamline the processes and fast-track the turn-around time for application of permits, certification and licenses covering projects,” said Aliling.
On Wednesday, Jan. 21, Aliling presided over a multi-agency meeting attended by officials and representatives from various government agencies for the proposed establishment of “express lanes” for socialized housing projects.
Among the agencies represented during the meeting included Departments of Agriculture, Agrarian Reform, Environment and Natural Resources, Information and Communication Technology; Land Registration Authority, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Bureau of Investments, Bureau of Internal Revenue, National Electrification Authority, Local Water Utilities Administration, National Water Resources Board and the Anti-Red Tape Authority.
During the meeting, Aliling suggested that concerned agencies should prioritize processes that will provide immediate impact and convenience to stakeholders, subject to existing laws and regulations of each regulatory agency.
“There is also a need to ensure interoperability of processes among government offices through digitalization for real-time tracking and updating of status,” he said.
Earlier this month, DHSUD convinced the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to simplify and streamline the application for tax exemption of socialized housing projects.
“The DHSUD is taking this seriously to fulfil our commitment to housing stakeholders by 2028. We have cut processes internally to improve turnaround time of License to Sell issuance,” said Aliling.
“We expect other agencies to cooperate with us to have a sustainable legacy in the housing industry,” he added.