Magna Carta for homeowners groups a welcome development

CEBU, Philippines - Local officials here welcome the enactment of the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners Associations, or Republic Act 9004, which protects the rights of the homeowners and the homeowners association and seen to cut conflicts in every community.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri relayed recently to Cebu’s local officials the approval of the law which according to him will benefit both the homeowners and the homeowners association.

Zubiri, the main author of the law, said that in a very clear and specific language the law laid down the rights and responsibilities of homeowners and the guidelines on the operations of homeowners associations.

Cebu mayors who attended an informal meeting with Zubiri said that the law will benefit the homeowners especially on the delivery of basic services.

Zubiri who is the past chairman of the Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Resettlement now chaired by Senator Rodolfo Biazon, also said that from now on, homeowners and homeowners association members will be supported by the law’s clear provisions and guidelines ensuring their right to avail of basic community services and facilities due them.

Zubiri clarified though that “contrary to earlier perceptions, this law was not made for rich residents of gated subdivisions only.”

“Lessees in government socialized housing projects or urban estates and those in communities of underprivileged and homeless citizens are also considered as homeowners for the purpose of qualifying as a member of a homeowners’ association without need of any written consent or authorization.”

Magna Carta also provides penalties for prohibited acts. Among them are depriving any homeowner of his/her right to avail of or enjoy basic community services and facilities where he/she has paid the dues, charges and other fees for such services; and preventing any member in good standing from participating in association meetings, elections and referenda.

Violations to the Magna Carta shall be punished with a fine of not less than P5,000 but not more than P50,000 and permanent disqualification from being elected or appointed as members of the board, officer or employee of the association. — Jose P. Sollano/MEEV   (FREEMAN NEWS)