THE House Committee on Poverty Alleviation has approved House Bill 9219, known as the PCUP Strengthening Act.
Authored by Rep. Marivic Co-Pilar, the landmark legislation aims to safeguard the rights of underprivileged and homeless Filipinos by expanding the organizational capacity and regulatory authority of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP).
The bill institutionalizes functions PCUP has carried out for nearly 40 years, equipping it with additional plantilla positions and regional offices to ensure responsive services nationwide.
Crucially, the measure restores PCUP’s independent clearinghouse authority over eviction and demolition activities.
It mandates a Compliance Certificate to verify adherence to Republic Act No. 7279 (the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992) before any operations proceed.
To boost transparency, HB 9219 establishes a National Eviction, Demolition, and Resettlement Registry.
It also addresses displacement by requiring housing unit allocations for qualified families affected by court-ordered demolitions and ensuring resettlement sites are safe and sustainable.
A core focus of the bill is participatory governance. It formalizes “People’s Shelter Planning,” allowing urban poor communities to actively participate in selecting relocation options and designing community development plans alongside local and national authorities.
Pre-demolition conferences and PCUP-facilitated dialogues are also recognized as formal dispute-resolution mechanisms.
Furthermore, the bill permits PCUP to register urban poor organizations to simplify sectoral representation and access to government services.
PCUP Chairperson Michelle Anne Gonzales welcomed the committee’s approval, emphasizing its human-centered approach.
“Strengthening the PCUP means strengthening the voice of the urban poor in decisions that affect their homes, their communities, and their future,” Gonzales said. “We are building communities—not merely housing units—and ensuring that no Filipino family is left behind.”
Rep. Co-Pilar highlighted that the bill fosters collaboration over conflict, adding, “Housing is not only about buildings—it is about people, dignity, and opportunity. By institutionalizing dialogue and stronger safeguards, we are laying the foundation for more peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive communities.”
The bill now moves forward in the legislative process to align PCUP’s institutional framework with its evolving role in national urban development.
