HSAC in 2025: Strengthening housing justice through institutional reforms

Batangas, Philippines — The Clean and Healthy Air for All Batangueños (CABATANG), Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ), and the people of Batangas celebrate another victory before the year’s end. On Dec. 23, 2025, VIRES Energy Corporation (VIRES) announced the suspension of the 900-megawatt (MW) liquefied natural gas (LNG) power project in Batangas due to grid and supply challenges. It can be recalled that A Brown Company, Inc. released its decision to withdraw the fossil gas regasification unit last August 2024.

CABATANG and PMCJ have long been fighting against the fossil gas project. In Sept. 2023, PMCJ and CABATANG held a climate emergency and community consultation in Brgy. Simlong, Batangas City.

The forum was conducted to strengthen the position of the affected communities against this fossil fuel project.

The consultation concluded with an action directed against all fossil gas projects in the pipeline, which include the VIRES gas plant. 

“This is the best gift that we received this Christmas, and we celebrate this step away from dirty energy, which follows years of collective action by communities in Batangas and across the country,” said Restituto Bobadilla, a resident of Brgy. Simlong, and president of CABATANG, a community-led movement on climate justice and the right to health.

“We have been waiting for VIRES to pull its plug against gas. We stepped up the pressure against the plant after it suspended the construction of its import terminal last August 2023. We know that this is coming,” Bobadilla continued.

The withdrawal protects the ecologically critical Verde Island Passage and addresses public health concerns, as Batangas City Health Office reported that the most common illnesses in the City were respiratory infection (10,650 cases) and hypertension (10,315 cases). The communities claim this is due to the high concentration of methane, which communities link to the area’s heavy concentration of fossil gas facilities.

PMCJ and CABATANG urge all fossil gas developers to follow this example by abandoning LNG projects and redirecting investments toward clean, renewable, and community-sustaining initiatives that protect both the people and the environment.

“This withdrawal is a testament to the power of people’s movements to defend our right to a safe and healthy environment,” said Larry Pascua, senior energy program officer of PMCJ.

“For too long, fossil fuel corporations have prioritized profit over people and planet, putting vulnerable communities and irreplaceable ecosystems at risk. We urge A Brown Corp to fully abandon plans for any new fossil gas infrastructure and instead invest in genuine clean energy solutions,” Pascua added.

PMCJ welcomes the withdrawal but warns against replacing it with another fossil fuel project. The group urges the Department of Energy and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to enforce strict regulations, uphold environmental and health laws, and prioritize community rights in energy planning.

“We will continue to push for a just transition away from all fossil fuels—one that centers the needs of workers, women, fisherfolk, and communities most impacted by the climate crisis.

Batangas and the Philippines deserve energy systems that protect our ecosystems, create dignified jobs, and ensure no one is left behind,” Pascua ended.

In a major push to accelerate digital transformation at the grassroots level, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has mandated the nationwide adoption of the Local Government Unit Support System – Barangay Information Management System (LGUSS-BIMS).

Through a Memorandum Circular, the DILG now requires all barangays to adopt and operate the BIMS, a web-based platform that enables the systematic recording, updating, and management of critical barangay data. These include resident profiles, barangay properties, financial transactions, ordinances, and disaster response information.

Composed of 11 interconnected sub-systems, LGUSS-BIMS enables real-time monitoring, reporting, and data sharing between barangays and higher-level local government units (LGUs). The system is designed to standardize data management across barangays while improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the digitalization of barangay records and services.

The initiative forms part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s broader directive to digitize government services across all agencies and LGUs to ensure faster, more responsive, and citizen-centered public service through strengthened frontline and back-end operations.

Beyond administrative functions, the system also supports evidence-based governance by enabling barangays to utilize system-generated data for development planning, budget preparation, peace and order programs, and disaster risk reduction initiatives.

As of the latest DILG report, 9,774 out of 42,011 barangays, or 23 percent, are actively using the system, while 14,008 barangays, or 33 percent, have already undergone orientation on the use of BIMS.

The DILG assured the public that data privacy and security remain a top priority. Access to barangay websites under the system is limited and strictly complies with the Data Privacy Act, particularly given the sensitive nature of the information being handled.

With the implementation guidelines now in place, the DILG expects increased adoption of LGUSS-BIMS nationwide, marking a significant step toward more transparent, efficient, and data-driven barangay administration across the country. (DILG)

As part of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) ongoing monitoring of the timely completion of 200 power generation projects, Stage 1 of the Terra Solar Project is advancing key grid interconnection milestones with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), following the energization and cut-in of the Terra Solar 500-kilovolt (kV) substation on 21 December 2025 along the Nagsaag-San Jose 500 kV Line 2. Stage 1 represents 364 megawatts (MW) of the project’s planned 2,500 MW solar capacity with battery energy storage systems (BESS), operated by Terra Solar Philippines, Inc.

Commercial operation of Stage 1 is expected in the first quarter of 2026.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), directed the DOE to accelerate the construction of 200 power generation projects over the next three years to strengthen the country’s energy security. In line with this directive, the DOE continues to track project progress and coordinate closely with stakeholders to ensure that committed capacity is delivered on schedule and in a manner consistent with safety and grid reliability requirements.

As of November 2025, about 956 MW of new power generation capacity have been added to the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao grids, complemented by 160 MW of new energy storage capacity located in Luzon and Visayas. These additions form part of the DOE’s broader efforts to ensure sufficient and reliable power supply in support of the country’s growing economy and increasing electricity demand.

The 956 MW of new generation capacity comes from fourteen (14) power plants: twelve (12) facilities using renewable energy (RE) technologies, one (1) oil-based power plant, and one (1) natural gas-fired power plant, most of which entered commissioning in the second half of 2025. Collectively, these projects help strengthen the grid’s ability to meet peak demand, reduce the risk of supply shortfalls, and improve operational flexibility in managing baseload requirements and variable demand.

To help ensure that committed capacity is delivered as scheduled, the DOE is implementing active project monitoring across generation and energy storage developments. This includes close coordination with project proponents and NGCP on grid interconnection readiness, regular tracking of construction and commissioning milestones, and early identification of bottlenecks that may affect timelines, such as permitting constraints, right-of-way issues, equipment delivery risks, and site-level implementation challenges. Through these efforts, the DOE aims to strengthen accountability, address issues before they escalate into delays, and ensure that new capacity additions can reliably support the grid when they are needed most.

As Terra Solar Stage 1 advances toward energization, the DOE will continue working closely with NGCP and the project proponent to ensure that grid interconnection requirements and safety standards are met, and that key commissioning milestones remain on track. The Department will likewise maintain close monitoring of other committed projects under the 200-power-plant pipeline, supporting the timely integration of new generation to strengthen system reliability and energy security. (DOE)

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) capped 2025 with major policy reforms, international recognition, and expanded access to skills training, reaffirming its commitment to deliver quality training that leads to decent jobs.

With strong backing from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., a consistent advocate of technical vocational education and training (TVET), TESDA strengthened the role of skills development as a pillar of the country’s education and workforce agenda.

“Napatunayan na nating mabisa ang tech-voc. Kaya, unti-unti nang pinapasok sa senior high ang TVET ng TESDA. Diretso pagka-graduate, puwede na kaagad na maghanapbuhay kung gugustuhin, dahil para na rin siyang nakapag-aral sa TESDA at nakakuha ng NC II or NC III,” the President said during his State-of-the-Nation Address in July.

The Philippines achieved historic success in global skills competitions in 2025. As the host of WorldSkills ASEAN Manila 2025, the country delivered its best performance to date, winning 30 medals. The Philippine team also earned four medals at WorldSkills Asia 2025 in Taiwan, underscoring the world-class competence of Filipino skilled workers.

TESDA likewise intensified alignment with international standards. Secretary Kiko Benitez represented the Philippines at the Education World Forum 2025, where he shared strategies on aligning TVET with evolving labor markets and digital transformation.

At the national level, TESDA strengthened collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to ensure smoother transitions from education to employment.

Key initiatives in 2025 included the integration of TechPro programs into basic education, free assessment for senior high school tech-voc graduates, and the creation of a Tripartite Council with CHED and the Professional Regulation Commission to harmonize standards across learning pathways.

TESDA also advanced lifelong learning through the expansion of micro-credentials, with 375 registered courses now offered by 190 training providers nationwide.

Major policy milestones included the rollout of the Early Childhood Care and Development Services NC III following the passage of the ECCD Law. The implementation of the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) was also strengthened after the signing of its Implementing Rules and Regulations, with latest data showing 240 enterprises implementing 410 EBET programs nationwide. 

To support innovation and regional development, TESDA broke ground on Regional TVET Innovation Centers in Tuguegarao City, Tacloban City, and General Santos City.

Meanwhile, it can also be remembered that President Marcos visited TESDA headquarters on October 10, highlighting the administration’s continued priority for skills development.  The President toured the facilities of TESDA Regional Training Center – National Capital Region (RTC-NCR), and the National Training Center for Women (NTCW), both located within the TESDA Complex in Taguig City. 

“These gains reflect the collective efforts of TESDAns, industry partners, and stakeholders nationwide. By working together and breaking silos, we are building a stronger, more inclusive skills ecosystem for Filipinos,” TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez said. 

As TESDA moves into 2026, the agency aims to build on the momentum of 2025 to further expand access to quality, industry-aligned skills training. (TESDA)

In 2025, the Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC) made significant progress in strengthening housing justice by introducing key institutional reforms, improving its performance systems, and expanding support for communities seeking fair and timely resolution of housing and real estate disputes. The year’s accomplishments showed how the Commission is continuously building a more accessible and dependable adjudicatory body for the public.

The issuance of the 2025 Revised Rules of Procedure marked HSAC’s most significant development this year. The updated rules simplify case processes, provide clearer guidance to litigants, and improve the overall pace of adjudication. The new rules emphasize that strengthening HSAC’s procedural framework is central to ensuring that people can resolve their housing issues with confidence and fairness.

Paired with its mission of resolving housing disputes is the Commission’s goal of operational excellence through continual enhancement of internal performance and financial systems. HSAC earned an ‘unmodified opinion’ from the Commission on Audit for its 2024 financial statements, signifying trustworthy and reliable financial management. The Department of Budget and Management likewise gave the Commission a ‘Very Satisfactory Rating’ for its overall performance.

HSAC’s efforts toward strengthening its systems were further recognized through national awards. The Commission received its fourth ‘Outstanding Accounting Office Award’ for excellence in financial reporting. It also attained a ‘Silver Award’ in the Anti- Red Tape Authority Report Card Survey 2.0 for its service quality and remarkable compliance with public service standards.

To reach a broader range of stakeholders, the Commission expanded its institutional linkages. Through agreements with the Local Government Unit of Bacoor City and the New Era University College of Law, HSAC strengthened collaboration with local governments and train future practitioners in dispute resolution. HSAC also began reaching out to Overseas Filipino Workers, starting in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Through the Serbisyo Caravan of the Department of Migrant Workers, HSAC provided legal information about property ownership and housing disputes that OFWs experience.

These citations and accomplishments reflect the institution’s sustained efforts to advance good governance and strengthen the adjudicatory process for its stakeholders. As HSAC moves forward, it remains committed to sustaining these reforms and ensuring that every Filipino has access to a fair, efficient, and transparent resolution of housing-related disputes. (HSAC)

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s administration has protected the poorest Filipino families by keeping inflation under control and maintaining a strong economic growth path in 2025.

Inflation, or the rate at which prices of basic goods and services rise as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), was cut by more than half from 3.4% in 2024 to just 1.6% from January to November 2025. This continues a downward trend since President Marcos, Jr. assumed office, from 5.8% in 2022 and 6.0% in 2023.

The sustained slowdown reflects the Marcos, Jr. administration’s decisive and coordinated actions to stabilize prices, secure food supply, and protect household purchasing power particularly for rice, which accounts for the largest share of spending of low-income families.

“To put this in perspective, a 6% inflation rate means that your PHP 100 can buy only about PHP 94 worth of goods and services. But with inflation down to just 1.6% in 2025, that same PHP 100 can now buy about PHP 98.4 worth of goods and services,” Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto explained

“Kaya napakahalaga nito para sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino, lalo na ang mga mahihirap. Kapag mababa ang inflation, napapanatili natin na abot-kaya ang mga pangunahing bilihin, lalo na ang pagkain,” he added

Rice prices continue to improve, with the Department of Agriculture (DA), upon President Marcos, Jr.’s directive, delivering on its commitment to bring rice prices down to PHP 20 per kilo or about half the average price in 2022.

As a result, inflation for the bottom 30% income households fell to -0.2% in November 2025, marking the sixth consecutive month of contraction and underscoring how price stabilization efforts are directly benefiting the most vulnerable Filipinos

The country’s low and stable inflation environment has been cited as a key strength by S&P Global Ratings, which recently reaffirmed the Philippines’ ‘BBB+’ high investment-grade rating with a Positive Outlook—a strong vote of confidence in President Marcos’s economic leadership.

Lower prices, combined with a vibrant labor market, are expected to boost domestic demand and consumption and support the Philippines’ economic growth.

With inflation easing, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has greater policy space to recalibrate interest rates, potentially providing further support to household spending and overall economic activity.

Investment prospects also remain robust as the economic team continues to remove bottlenecks and streamline regulations to attract greater private sector participation. New initiatives and investment opportunities, particularly in agriculture, will soon be announced.

Multilateral institutions remain optimistic about the Philippines’ growth prospects, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) forecasting a 5% GDP growth, while both the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) project expansion at 5.1% for 2025.

This outperforms the 1.6% average growth projection of advanced economies this year, including the United States (2.0%), Japan (1.1%), and the Euro area (1.2%), according to the IMF.

The Philippines’ projected expansion is also higher compared to the 4.2% average growth for ASEAN-5 in 2025. In fact, it is second best among its peers, following Vietnam at 6.5% and higher than Indonesia at 4.9%, Malaysia at 4.5%, Singapore at 2.2%, and Thailand at 2%.

By 2026, the IMF projects that the Philippines will be the fastest-growing economy in ASEAN, tied with Vietnam at a 5.6% growth rate. (PCO)