The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is eyeing the digitalization of its services, saying the move will not only facilitate the services but also assure corruption-free transactions. 

DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said the pilot testing will start before the end of this month and covers transactions like the processing of permits and the issuance of Certificates of Registration and Licenses to Sell (CR/LS).

“Digitalization will greatly improve how the Department serves Filipino families. Clear systems reduce delays, improve access, protect public trust and promote transparency and accountability," said Aliling.

“This initiative seeks to modernize how the Department regulates subdivision and condominium projects by reducing manual transactions, streamlining processes, and making services more accessible to stakeholders across the country,” he added.

He said such a move is part of the efforts to strengthen transparency and service efficiency particularly in ease of transacting housing concerns, and protecting homebuyers and legitimate real estate practitioners.

Under the proposed setup, developers will be able to submit and process applications through digital platforms.

Aliling said this will eliminate the need for multiple in-person transactions and allow applicants to transact with the Department regardless of location, even as he stressed that the streamlined process is expected to reduce processing costs, improve turnaround times, and provide a more convenient experience for stakeholders.

A major feature of the initiative, he said, is the establishment of an integrated database of private developers nationwide. 

“By centralizing records and regulatory information, DHSUD will be able to monitor applications more effectively and strengthen compliance monitoring across all regions,” said Aliling.

He said the system is also expected to serve as an additional safeguard against unscrupulous developers. 

Through a unified database, Aliling said applications can be automatically cross-checked against existing records, enabling the Department to flag developers with pending violations, unresolved compliance issues, or other regulatory concerns before applications move forward.

“This strengthened monitoring mechanism aims to prevent unauthorized transactions and discourage attempts to circumvent regulatory requirements, as part of the Department's anti-corruption efforts,” said Aliling.

For homebuyers, he said the digital platform is envisioned to provide easier access to information on licensed projects, helping them verify legitimacy of housing projects before investing.

The initiative also includes the alignment of systems and processes across DHSUD's central and regional offices to ensure uniform implementation of regulations and consistent delivery of services nationwide.