The Department of Justice (DOJ) is stepping up efforts to crack down on illegal real estate activities, signaling a tougher enforcement stance as authorities seek to strengthen market integrity and restore public trust in property transactions.
Speaking at the Real Estate Brokers Association of the Philippines (REBAP) Integrity Summit in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, DOJ Law Enforcement Cluster Undersecretary Ian Norman E. Dato said the government is determined to curb the activities of unlicensed or “kolorum” practitioners, whose operations continue to pose risks to buyers and tarnish the reputation of legitimate industry players.
Representing Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida, Dato noted that real estate transactions are among the largest financial commitments made by Filipino families, making regulatory compliance and professional accountability critical to consumer protection.
The renewed enforcement push comes as authorities seek to address persistent concerns over unauthorized brokerage activities, fraudulent transactions, and weak compliance with industry standards. According to Dato, failure to penalize violations fosters a culture of impunity that erodes confidence in the property market and places compliant professionals at a disadvantage.
He underscored the role of Republic Act No. 9646, or the Real Estate Service Act, in professionalizing the sector through standards on competence, ethics, and accountability. Dato also highlighted Joint Memorandum Circular No. 01, which created an inter-agency task force composed of the DOJ, DHSUD, DILG, DENR, NBI, LRA, PRC, and PNP to coordinate action against illegal real estate activities nationwide.
Rather than introducing new regulations, the DOJ is focusing on stricter implementation of existing laws. Dato stressed that unlicensed practice and fraudulent property dealings may constitute criminal offenses and should be prosecuted when supported by evidence.
The initiative reflects a broader recognition that stronger enforcement—not additional rules—may be the key to improving transparency, leveling the playing field for legitimate practitioners, and sustaining confidence in the country’s growing real estate sector.
