MARIA TERESA B.

CARIDO
PA 607 I Rural Development and Urban Planning

Reaction Paper to the Topic:

Land Use Planning and Development

Mr. Dennis Dimaano's report on Land Use Planning brings to the forefront a critical
issue that has been haunting our nation for decades: the elusive passage of the National Land
Use Act (NLUA). As I delved into his report, I found myself grappling with the complexities and
controversies that have surrounded this proposed legislation since its first introduction in
1994.
During my further research about this issue, it was revealed that NLUA has been
repeatedly held back by lawmakers. In particular, the report highlights the lack of action by
Senator Cynthia Villar, the chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural
Resources, who has consistently opposed the bill. Her reluctance to support the NLUA raises
a profound concern.
It is concerning to note that Senator Villar's stance against the NLUA appears to be
influenced by a potential conflict of interest. Her family's involvement in the land and housing
development business raises questions about the motivations behind her opposition. The
report suggests that the passage of the NLUA could limit the freedom of land and housing
developers, such as her family, to build houses wherever they see fit for maximum profit. This,
in itself, seems to be a compelling reason for the prolonged legislative stagnation.
However, it is important to remember that the NLUA is not merely a matter of
convenience for a few, but a pivotal piece of legislation that aims to centralize land use
planning. It would ensure the protection of our lands, especially from unnecessary
conversions. The absence of such a law means that land-use planning remains fragmented,
leading to haphazard and potentially harmful development. The NLUA would also establish a
structured framework for monitoring and policing land use plans, a crucial element in
preventing land misuse and over-exploitation.
The benefits of the NLUA are evident and essential for the sustainable development of
our country. Its passage would not only align with the advocacy of past presidents like
Presidents Aquino, Arroyo, and Duterte, but it would also provide the strong policies and
authorities needed to implement and enforce land use plans. This would help ensure a more
organized, sustainable, and equitable approach to land utilization for the benefit of our nation
as a whole.
In conclusion, Mr. Dennis Dimaano's report has underscored the pressing need for the
passage of the National Land Use Act. It is disheartening that conflicting interests have
hindered its progress for nearly three decades. It is my hope that our lawmakers, including
Senator Villar, will prioritize the long-term interests of the nation over personal concerns. The
NLUA is a critical piece of legislation that can guide our country toward a more responsible,
sustainable, and equitable use of our land resources.