PCC and DHSUD promote fair housing competition in Philippines

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) are joining forces to increase fairness in the housing market. They want to stop anti-competitive practices that can hurt home buyers. This partnership was established through a memorandum of agreement signed on March 14 in Quezon City. PCC Chairperson Michael Aguinaldo emphasized the goal of making housing more affordable and accessible for all Filipinos. He stated that the agencies aim to create a market where no single company can dominate. The agreement outlines how the PCC and DHSUD will cooperate to monitor and tackle anti-competitive behaviors. They will share information on mergers and enforcement cases to improve oversight in the housing industry. Both agencies will also hold joint training sessions and regular meetings to discuss important issues related to competition law. The PCC has previously penalized a property developer for abusing its market power through exclusive agreements with internet service providers. This action is part of their ongoing efforts to ensure fair competition in the housing sector, allowing developers to make necessary changes and align with competition laws.