NAGA CITY Philippines–In her first 100 days in office, Mayor Leni Robredo has delivered significant progress in her administration’s housing initiatives, highlighted by the distribution of Transfer Certificates of Title (TCTs) to 431 beneficiaries under the city’s Kaantabay sa Kauswagan program.

The TCTs, handed over to the first batch of beneficiaries, mark a significant step in the city government’s commitment to secure land tenure for informal settlers through its socialized housing efforts. The Kaantabay sa Kauswagan (Partners in Development), aims to empower low-income families by granting them legal ownership of the lots they occupy.

“This is not just about land ownership—it’s about dignity, stability, and opportunity,” Mayor Robredo said. “Once the lot is fully paid, the beneficiary must receive his or her TCT without delay.”

According to the Housing Settlements and Development Office (HSDO), preparations are already underway for the second batch of title releases, expected to take place in December 2025, with an even larger number of recipients anticipated.
The HSDO is working under Mayor Robredo’s directive to fast-track the release of TCTs to qualified beneficiaries immediately upon the completion of their payment obligations to the city government.

In addition to the TCT distribution, the city is also taking strides toward long-term housing security by initiating the enrolment of urban poor communities into the Community Mortgage Program (CMP)—a national financing scheme that helps legally-organized homeowners’ associations acquire land through affordable loans.

Several homeowners’ associations have already undergone orientation sessions as part of the city’s phased implementation of the CMP. The HSDO is currently processing necessary documentation to move forward with the program. | via Jason B. Neola