CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, PHILIPPINES – June 12, 2025 — The Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations, Inc. (CREBA) reaffirmed its pivotal role in the Philippine housing sector by leading the Visayas-Mindanao Regional Housing Conference 2025. Held in Cagayan de Oro City, the event brought together key players from both public and private sectors in a concerted effort to address housing challenges and promote sustainable urban development in the regions.
Founded over 50 years ago, CREBA is the largest umbrella organization for the real estate industry in the Philippines. With more than 4,000 member firms and professionals, the organization is dedicated to the mission of “A Home for Every Filipino.” This conference was a concrete manifestation of that mission in action, serving as a platform for sharing policies, partnerships, and best practices to bridge the country’s persistent housing gap.
A Strategic Moment for Regional Development
With urbanization rapidly expanding in the Visayas and Mindanao, industry leaders underscored the importance of aligning housing initiatives with national development goals. According to CREBA National President Noel “Toti” M. Cariño, housing must be viewed as a core driver of economic progress.
“We are not just building homes—we are building hope, dignity, and a stronger foundation for national prosperity,” said Cariño in his address.
CREBA National Chairman Jerry M. Navarrete echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the conference is more than symbolic—it is “a potent platform for action.”
“Housing must be prioritized as a national issue. Through dialogue and partnership, we aim to push policies that ensure accessibility, affordability, and long-term livability.”
Cagayan de Oro as an Urban Growth Hub
The choice of Cagayan de Oro City as host for the conference is no accident. As a regional growth center, the city is a critical focal point for public-private collaboration.
CREBA-CDO Chapter President Engr. Chrysler B. Acebu and Chairman of the Board Gigi Cabanlas Roa welcomed delegates and reaffirmed their commitment to regional housing development.
“This event is not just a gathering of professionals—it’s a reaffirmation of our duty to continue the legacy of those who paved the way for CREBA’s impact,” Acebu stated.
“Let this conference be a launchpad for unity and innovation,” added Roa, encouraging collaborative approaches to addressing regional housing demand.
Policy Support and Government Partnerships
The conference was bolstered by strong representation from the government, with DHSUD Region 10 Director Ariel B. Abragan delivering a compelling message of support. He lauded CREBA’s ethical leadership and its commitment to sustainability and anti-colorum practices.
“CREBA’s work aligns directly with the Sustainable Development Goals. Our shared mission to ensure dignified, lawful, and inclusive housing development must continue to gain ground in the regions,” said Director Abragan.
The event also earned the full support of local government. Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Roland Klarex A. Uy emphasized that housing is more than infrastructure—it is a human right.
“Our administration is fully committed to equitable urban growth. We see in CREBA a trusted partner in building a livable and inclusive city for every Kagay-anon,” said Mayor Uy.
Strength in Unity: CREBA’s National Structure at Work
Backed by its 32 domestic chapters and a growing international presence, CREBA continues to integrate national housing objectives with regional execution. The leadership of Vice-President for Chapter Affairs Jocelyn V. Yumul was recognized for galvanizing local chapters around a unified national strategy.
“The real work happens on the ground. And it’s committed leaders across regions that turn our national vision into measurable progress,” said Yumul.
Throughout the two-day conference, delegates explored issues from legislative reform to sustainable building, and from financing innovations to local planning strategies. Working sessions aimed to bridge the gap between national policy frameworks and local implementation.
Outcomes and the Path Forward
Among the major takeaways from the conference:
- The need for localized, climate-resilient housing frameworks
- The importance of streamlining permits and land titling systems
- Greater collaboration between developers and LGUs for public housing projects
- Leveraging CREBA’s lobbying power to push for long-term tax and finance incentives
With CREBA’s strategic advocacy and grassroots execution, many see this regional conference as a model for future housing summits.
“Let us build stronger ties between sectors, between cities, and between people. That is how we move the needle toward equitable housing,” said Navarrete in his closing message.
About CREBA
The Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations, Inc. is the largest umbrella organization for the Philippine real estate and housing sector. Founded in 1973, CREBA represents professionals and companies engaged in land development, construction, planning, appraisal, and housing finance. CREBA is committed to shaping policy, building partnerships, and empowering communities toward the goal of “A Home for Every Filipino.”
