Dr. Nathaniel von Einsiedel, NREA overall convention chairman, cited the importance of the convention aimed at designing a new urban development model for the country as called for by the Comprehensive Land Use Plans of LGUs and the Local Government Code.
Einsiedel said the Civil Service Commission has also encouraged the LGUs and heads of government agencies to send participants to the gathering on official time as part of the continuing career development for government employees being sanctioned by CSC.
On the theme "Creating the New Filipino Community in the 21st Century," the convention-trade exhibits support President Arroyo’s 10-point agenda to jumpstart the economy, generate jobs and alleviate poverty through housing and property development.
President Arroyo has been invited to be the guest speaker, deliver the keynote address and open the trade exhibits. NREA chairman Jose Manalad will welcome the participants, while Environment Secretary Michael Defensor, former housing secretary, will introduce the President.
Interior-Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes will talk on "The Role of LGUs in Creating Communities for the New Century" while Einsiedel will give an overview of the convention.
NREA vice chairman Arch. Felino A. Palafox Jr. of Palafox Associates, will open workshop 1. The topics are planning and design: emerging concepts with presentors Rex C. Drilon, COO, Ortigas & Co. Limited Partnership speaking on mixed use development: Ortigas commercial center redevelopment experience; and Arch. Nestor S. Mangio, NREA president, speaking "Trends in Livable Residential Development.
Workshop 2 Development Regulations – Standards and Procedures, chaired by NREA trustee Bienvenido G. de Castro; with presentors Nora L. Diaz, HLURB head of field operations support group, "HLURB Updates on CLUP;" Director Julian Amador of DENR, "February 10 DENR Sewage Memo," with reactions from Thad R. Liamzon, NREA past trustee; and Engr. Porthos P. Alma Jose, CREBA past president.