In response to challenges faced by the members of at least 44 homeowner groups currently occupying 93-1 lots owned by Cebu Province, Gov. Gwen Garcia has extended yet again the deadline of their housing loan applications with the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund.
The extension was announced by Gov. Gwen in a meeting on May 2 at the Capitol Social Hall. It was attended by Cebu City Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia and Miram Loren, housing relationship officer at Pag-IBIG.
“Sige, last na ni ha. Last na. Last na gyud. Promise, 60 days, July 2,” Gov. Gwen told the occupants present.
The governor’s original ultimatum for their housing loan application expired today. Out of equity, however, the governor granted their request for more time as it was found out that they encountered challenges in their attempt to process their papers.
One of the main hurdles they mentioned is the Pag-IBIG requirement for tax declarations and tax clearances. Issues regarding subdivision of lots have also contributed to delays in the application process.
To address the issue, Gov. Gwen informed both homeowners and Pag-IBIG officials that the Capitol would issue certifications confirming the existence of the lots occupied by homeowners because the Province owns the lots and there exists only one tax declaration for the entire property.
In a proactive move to solve another issue, Gov. Gwen signed in behalf of the Province the subdivision plans, further demonstrating her commitment to assisting the affected homeowners of the city.
The subject 93-1 properties are located in the barangays of Busay, Luz, Lahug, Mabolo, Apas, Lorega, Kasambagan, Capitol Site, Tejero, Kamputhaw, and Kalunasan in Cebu City. All in all, it has an aggregate area of 51 hectares.
The Capitol, through Ordinance No. 93-1, has allowed for these lots, occupied by city residents, to be sold to the occupants at fair market value.
To facilitate ease of transaction, Gov. Gwen has tapped Pag-IBIG which will pay the Capitol the full amount of the property, and in turn, demand payment from the lot occupants, at more liberal paying terms. | BJR