Yamsuan files measure mandating bi-annual consultations between LGUs, homeowners

Bicol Saro Partylist Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan

MANILA, Philippines — Bicol Saro Partylist Representative Brian Raymund Yamsuan has pushed for the congressional approval of a measure that would require local government units (LGUs) to meet twice a year with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) within their jurisdiction as a way to ensure a regular line of communication between them on issues of mutual concern.

Yamsuan said the measure, as outlined in House Bill (HB) 10386, aims to enhance the access of HOAs to their respective LGUs and improve the delivery of services to the people on the ground.

“Our LGUs and HOAs can be effective partners in addressing pressing matters affecting local communities. Establishing a structured mechanism for communication between them would enhance this partnership and ensure that the voices of homeowners are heard on issues affecting them,” Yamsuan said.

“Also, HOAs interact directly with the people in their community and, thus, have first-hand knowledge of what’s happening at the grassroots level. They are an untapped resource when it comes to assisting LGUs in effectively implementing programs and projects and in delivering essential services to the people,” added Yamsuan.

Yamsuan, a former assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, filed the bill after meeting with the different HOAs in his home city of Parañaque.

The HB 10386 seeks to amend Section 18 of Republic Act 9904, or the Magna Carta For Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations, by adding a provision that would mandate LGUs to conduct bi-annual consultations with members of HOAs within their jurisdiction “to gather feedback, suggestions, and inputs on matters of mutual concern, including but not limited to proposed programs, projects and other issues impacting local communities.”

Yamsuan said establishing this communication mechanism would not only result in a more inclusive decision-making process on issues affecting both homeowners and their LGUs, it would also aid local governments in immediately seeking the assistance of the country’s 24,700 registered HOAs , especially during emergencies.

He recalled that at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government tapped HOAs in enforcing community quarantines and health protocols, as well as in disseminating relevant information on how to curb the spread of the virus.

The HOAs can also assist LGUs in maintaining peace and order, as many community-based conflicts are often resolved at their level, or with the help of the barangay, Yamsuan said.

“Meeting twice a year will develop mutual trust and strengthen the partnership between HOAs and LGUs. This, in turn, would aid LGUs and even the national government, in developing programs and other initiatives that truly benefit local communities based on their distinct needs,” Yamsuan said.

Under the bill, each LGU shall coordinate with their HOAs in setting a schedule for the twice-a-year consultations. Proper notice of the meeting, along with the preliminary agenda, shall be provided to the HOAs at least two weeks prior to the scheduled consultations, which should be held in a public venue accessible to HOA members.

Documentation of each meeting shall be made publicly available within 30 days after each consultation.

Non-compliance with the requirements stated under the bill may result in administrative sanctions as provided under the Local Government Code and relevant laws and regulations.