Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines – June 12, 2025 — The Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations, Inc. (CREBA) marked another milestone in its legacy of housing advocacy with the successful staging of the Visayas-Mindanao Regional Housing Conference, hosted by its Cagayan de Oro Chapter. The two-day event gathered a diverse mix of real estate developers, policy makers, planners, industry professionals, and government officials to unite under a common vision: “A Home for Every Filipino.”
CREBA, a private non-stock, non-profit organization, serves as the umbrella organization of the real estate and housing sector in the Philippines. With over 4,000 members across 32 domestic chapters and 7 international chapters, it represents a vast network of developers, contractors, brokers, architects, engineers, appraisers, and allied professionals working together to shape the national housing agenda.
Founded on the philosophy of business with social conscience, CREBA advocates for balanced interests, professional integrity, and public accountability in real estate development. For more than 50 years, it has committed itself to nation-building by aligning private sector efforts with inclusive government programs aimed at providing durable, functional, and affordable homes for Filipino families.
CREBA-CDO at the Forefront of Regional Growth
As one of Mindanao’s most dynamic urban hubs, Cagayan de Oro City provides a strategic backdrop for this year’s regional housing conference. The CREBA-Cagayan de Oro Chapter, led by President Engr. Chrysler B. Acebu and Chairman of the Board Gigi Cabanlas Roa, continues to demonstrate unwavering commitment to sustainable housing, urban development, and community empowerment.
“This is more than just an event to socialize and network—it is a celebration of our collective achievements, a reaffirmation of our mission, and a tribute to the people behind CREBA’s enduring legacy,” said Engr. Acebu in his opening message. “Our end goal may be elusive, but the journey we take together will pave the way for real change.”
Gigi Roa emphasized the importance of regional collaboration:
“This gathering of visionaries strengthens our ability to meet the growing housing demands of our people. Let this be a platform for unity and innovation.”
National Leaders Echo Support
CREBA National President Noel “Toti” M. Cariño praised the Cagayan de Oro chapter for its leadership in organizing the event.
“This is not just a gathering—it is a celebration of our shared vision for inclusive real estate growth, regional development, and a sustainable future,” he said. “Visayas and Mindanao are poised to be engines of economic progress. Now is the time to align our efforts.”
CREBA National Chairman Jerry M. Navarrete echoed this sentiment, stating that the conference goes beyond discussions—it is a platform for action.
“Let’s continue working together to make housing a national priority, one that promotes social equity and uplifts every Filipino family.”
Vice President for Chapter Affairs Jocelyn V. Yumul also commended CREBA-CDO’s commitment:
“Real change starts where action happens—on the ground, in the regions, and through committed people like the CREBAns we are.”
A Platform for Partnerships and Innovation
A central theme of the conference was the importance of aligning local development initiatives with national goals and global sustainable development standards. In his keynote address, Ariel B. Abragan, Regional Director of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Region 10, recognized CREBA’s leadership in promoting ethical and sustainable development practices.
“CREBA plays a crucial role in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals—especially SDG 11 on sustainable cities and SDG 1 on poverty reduction through housing,” he noted. Director Abragan also highlighted his advocacy against “colorum” real estate practices and praised CREBA for its support in upholding integrity in the industry.
Local Government Commitment
Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Roland Klarex A. Uy warmly welcomed participants, affirming the local government’s commitment to inclusive urban development.
“Housing is not just about shelter—it is about dignity, security, and the right of every Filipino to live in a community they can call home,” the mayor said. “We are proud to host this conference, and we support efforts that make development equitable and sustainable for every Kagay-anon.”
Strengthening the CREBA Legacy
Throughout the conference, speakers and participants echoed the enduring values and mission of CREBA. From its early days as an organization focused on ethical and sustainable development to its modern-day role as a powerful policy advocate and community builder, CREBA continues to uphold its founding tenets.
Its mission remains clear: to provide decent, affordable, and secure housing for every Filipino while fostering a robust and ethical real estate industry. Its By-Laws reflect this purpose—to integrate national growth with economic stability, to partner with the government and the private sector, and to initiate programs that close the housing gap while respecting public interest.
As a culmination of this shared mission, the VisMin Regional Housing Conference 2025 stands as a beacon of what is possible when professionals, public servants, and private leaders work hand-in-hand. From discussions on green building and policy reform to innovations in affordable housing delivery, the event showcased the power of collective effort.
A Call to Action
In closing, the messages from national and local leaders alike urged all participants not only to learn and collaborate but also to act decisively in their respective fields.
“This event is a reminder of our power to shape the future,” said CREBA President Cariño. “Let us turn the best ideas into action—and our vision for the Filipino family into reality.”
The CREBA-Cagayan de Oro Chapter, together with its national leadership and government partners, hopes that this conference ignites bold initiatives and lasting partnerships that uplift communities throughout Visayas, Mindanao, and beyond.
With this momentum, the dream of “A Home for Every Filipino” moves one step closer to becoming a reality.
