The Supreme Court has recently announced a partnership with the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG) to address the housing needs of judiciary employees. This collaboration aims to provide affordable housing options and support the right to adequate housing for those working within the institution.
Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo expressed his commitment to upholding and advancing the rights of all individuals within the institution, stating, “This institution is a bastion of rights, and it is only fitting that we lead by example in upholding and advancing the rights of those within the institution — including, through this undertaking, the right to adequate housing.”
Under the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Supreme Court and Pag-IBIG, a Group Sale of Real and Other Properties Acquired (ROPA) Program will be implemented. This program will assist Supreme Court employees in identifying their preferred property from the list of acquired assets (AAs) or through home-matching among the available inventories of Pag-IBIG Fund’s accredited developers.
To further support the housing needs of judiciary employees, Pag-IBIG will extend individual housing loans to qualified Supreme Court employees. These loans will be subject to the prevailing housing loan policies and guidelines of Pag-IBIG. Additionally, a Collection Servicing Agreement will be established between the high tribunal and Pag-IBIG for the collection of the monthly housing loan amortization from employees who participate in the group sale.
Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, who initiated the partnership, clarified that this project does not involve any fund usage from the Judiciary. Instead, it leverages the existing programs of Pag-IBIG that are available to the entire government. He also emphasized the timeliness of this collaboration, as the high court anticipates its relocation in the coming year.
Recognizing the significance of housing as a fundamental human need, Senior Associate Justice Leonen expressed his hopes that judiciary employees can actively build their own homes in a place they desire. He emphasized the importance of leaving a legacy for future generations, stating, “Housing is a very important human need, and we hope that while you are with the Judiciary, you are able to actively build your own in a place that you desire so that you have something to leave for your children and grandchildren.”
This partnership between the Supreme Court and Pag-IBIG represents a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of judiciary employees. By providing access to affordable housing options and individual housing loans, the Supreme Court aims to support its employees in achieving their homeownership goals.
It is noteworthy that this collaboration aligns with the Supreme Court’s commitment to upholding and advancing the rights of individuals within the institution. By leading by example, the Supreme Court demonstrates its dedication to ensuring the well-being and rights of its employees, including their right to adequate housing.
As the high court anticipates its relocation in the coming year, this partnership comes at an opportune time. It not only addresses the immediate housing needs of judiciary employees but also contributes to their long-term financial security and the legacy they can leave for future generations.
Overall, this collaboration between the Supreme Court and Pag-IBIG serves as a testament to the importance of affordable housing and the commitment of the judiciary to support its employees. By providing access to housing options and individual housing loans, the Supreme Court empowers its employees to actively build their own homes and secure a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Source: The Manila Times