Chrysodale H.

Morales
October 28, 2023

One of the key takeaways from the “Convergence & Confluence: Towards a Vibrant, Inclusive, &
Sustainable Philippines” seminar was the comprehensive definition of agricultural activities,
which encompass not only cultivation and harvesting but also various farming practices. The
legal framework provided by RA No. 6657 delineates the types of lands covered by the
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), emphasizing the importance of suitable
lands for agriculture. The concept of conversion emerged as a critical aspect of the discussion,
highlighting the careful processes involved in transforming agricultural lands into
non-agricultural uses. The seminar made it clear that mere reclassification does not suffice;
rather, a rigorous process, involving the approval of relevant authorities, adherence to
development plans, and compensation to affected farmers, is imperative. This stringent
approach aims to prevent illegal conversions and safeguard the interests of farmers and
tenants. The seminar also illuminated the various instances where agricultural lands are exempt
from CARP, including lands dedicated to specific purposes such as parks, wildlife sanctuaries,
and national defense. Understanding these exemptions is crucial in balancing the needs of
agricultural development with other societal needs and environmental conservation. Moreover,
the role of local government units (LGUs) in land use planning and conversion cannot be
overstated.

The integration of Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUP) and ordinances, coupled with public
hearings, serves as a democratic and transparent method to assess the economic feasibility of
agricultural lands and determine their potential for residential, commercial, or industrial
purposes. In conclusion, the seminar provided invaluable insights into the complexities of
agricultural land use and conversion. It underscored the delicate balance between economic
development and agricultural preservation, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations to
protect the rights of farmers and tenants. The knowledge gained from this seminar will
undoubtedly shape my perspective on real estate development and investments, fostering a
deeper understanding of the ethical and legal dimensions of land use in our society.

The seminar also emphasized the importance of sustainable housing in our country. Adequate
housing goes beyond providing shelter; it encompasses privacy, space, stability, basic
infrastructure, and environmental quality, all at an affordable cost. Aligning with the Global Goals
for Sustainable Development, especially Goal 11 of sustainable cities and communities, is
imperative. It is encouraging to note that the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and
Ambisyon Natin 2040 share a vision of prosperous, inclusive, and resilient societies. In
conclusion, the seminar's insights underscore the imperative for real estate practitioners to lead
the charge towards a sustainable future. Balancing economic growth with environmental
responsibility is not just a choice but a necessity. By adopting green practices, integrating ESG
criteria, and aligning with global sustainable development goals, the real estate sector can
indeed be a catalyst for positive change. Embracing these principles will not only secure the
future of the industry but also contribute significantly to the well-being of our society and the
preservation of our planet.
Chrysodale H. Morales
October 28, 2023

The insights from the 2023 Ph Consultants Summit and the seminar on "The New Agrarian
Emancipation Act" underscore the intricate balance needed between economic development
and environmental responsibility. At the core of these discussions lies the understanding that
real estate, a significant contributor to environmental degradation, must transform its practices
to mitigate its impact on the planet. The New Agrarian Emancipation Act (RA No. 11953)
introduces essential reforms, benefiting over 620,255 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs).
The law condones agrarian loans amounting to PhP 57.56 Billion, providing relief to ARBs
burdened by financial obligations. Furthermore, the Act emphasizes the importance of social
justice, emphasizing the humanization of laws and the equalization of social and economic
forces. This aligns with the broader theme of inclusivity and sustainable development echoed
throughout the seminars. Additionally, the role of real estate professionals in the context of
climate change cannot be overstated. The alarming statistics presented during the seminars
highlight the urgency for the industry to adopt eco-friendly practices. The sector's contribution to
the global carbon footprint necessitates a collective effort toward decarbonization. Opportunities
such as local energy generation, green building materials, and expert consultancy services can
pave the way for a more sustainable real estate future.

The 2023 Ph Consultants Summit, with its theme "Convergence & Confluence: Towards a
Vibrant, Inclusive, & Sustainable Philippines," provided a deep dive into the challenges and
opportunities faced by the nation. The second day of the summit, in particular, shed light on
pivotal aspects of the country's development journey. One of the key takeaways from the
summit was the emphasis on innovation and adaptation in the face of environmental and
economic challenges. The discussions around transitioning from fuel to electric vehicles and
promoting green metals highlighted the necessity of sustainable practices in the industrial
sector. This shift not only addresses environmental concerns but also presents new economic
avenues. The significant role played by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) was another
eye-opener. Their substantial contributions to the real estate industry and the importance of
providing them with suitable, affordable retirement homes reflect the societal and economic
impact of their efforts.

Real estate emerged not just as a market force but as a critical aspect of social stability and
financial security. Furthermore, the summit underscored the importance of collaboration
between the public and private sectors. The presentations by the Public Relations Board of Real
Estate Service (PRBRES) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)
highlighted the need for regulatory oversight, ethical practices, and knowledge-sharing. These
elements are fundamental in building safe, inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable development
projects. Architect Felino A. Palafox, Jr.'s Vision 2050 presentation resonated deeply. His vision
for a future Philippines with 100 new healthy, sustainable, resilient, livable, and smart cities by
2050 is both ambitious and necessary. His emphasis on sustainability across various sectors,
from architecture to transportation, aligns perfectly with the global call for eco-friendly practices.
His words, "We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors - we borrow it from our children,"
echo the urgency of our responsibility towards the environment.
Chrysodale H. Morales
October 28, 2023

In summary, the seminars highlighted the intricate balance required between economic
development and environmental responsibility, with real estate playing a pivotal role in this
equilibrium. The emphasis on stringent regulations, sustainable housing, and inclusivity through
acts like the New Agrarian Emancipation Act underscore the industry's responsibility.
Furthermore, the urgent need for eco-friendly practices, collaborative efforts, and visionary
initiatives like Vision 2050 reiterate the imperative for real estate professionals to lead the way
toward a greener, more sustainable future for the Philippines.