THE Department of Justice (DOJ) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen accountability and enforcement in the real estate sector during the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (REBAP) Integrity Summit held at the Orchard Golf Course in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, on Aprl 25, 2026.
Organized by REBAP, the summit brought together stakeholders from the government and the private sectors to address illegal real estate practices and reinforce compliance standards across the industry.
Representing Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida, Department of Justice Law Enforcement Cluster Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato emphasized the importance of protecting public trust in an industry that shapes some of the most significant financial decisions of Filipinos.
Dato highlighted the growing concern over “kolorum” or unlicensed real estate practitioners, warning that unchecked illegal activity can erode trust in the market.
Dato noted that when violations are not consistently addressed, it creates a perception of impunity that ultimately harms both buyers and legitimate practitioners.
He underscored the importance of Republic Act No. 9646, or the Real Estate Service Act, which was enacted to professionalize the sector and establish standards of competence and accountability for practitioners.
DOJ likewise recognized initiatives such as AKMove for helping bring attention to illegal real estate practices and strengthening calls for accountability within the industry.
“If we get enforcement right, if we align, coordinate, and act consistently, then compliance will no longer be the exception. It will be the norm,” the DOJ official stressed.