Real Estate Professionals Welcome New Regulatory Board Appointments
The Accredited Real Estate Salespersons of the Philippines (Acres) has expressed optimism following the formal appointment of new members to the Professional Regulatory Board of Real Estate Service (PRBRES). The organization anticipates a more collaborative regulatory approach that will benefit the nation's rapidly growing property market.
Oath-Taking Ceremony Formalizes New Leadership
The appointments were officially confirmed during an oath-taking ceremony conducted by the Professional Regulatory Commission on December 17, 2025, at its headquarters in Manila. The newly constituted board will be chaired by Ofelia Binag, with members including Cecilynne Andrade, Maria Teresita Canlas, Jessie B. Doctolero, and Estelita Patdu.
Diverse Expertise to Address Industry Evolution
Chris Malazarte, the national president of Acres, emphasized that the board's composition brings together valuable experience from regulatory, academic, and public-sector backgrounds. This diverse expertise positions the board to effectively address the changing requirements of the real estate workforce, which encompasses salespersons, brokers, appraisers, and consultants across the archipelago.
"We see an opportunity for deeper dialogue and more balanced regulation that reflects the realities on the ground," Malazarte stated. He further noted that the organization expects enhanced engagement between regulatory authorities and industry practitioners moving forward.
Technology Integration and Regional Engagement
The board's commitment to understanding contemporary challenges was recently demonstrated when member Maria Teresita Canlas visited Cebu to participate in the annual PropTech Hackathon 2026. This event highlighted technology-driven solutions for property services, showcasing the increasing importance of digital platforms and data tools in brokerage, valuation, and project marketing within one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic urban property markets.
During her visit, Canlas also conducted meetings with local brokers and salespersons. Industry leaders believe these discussions will help clarify regulatory guidelines and improve coordination between the regulatory board and private professional associations.
Balancing Standards with Innovation
Malazarte emphasized that Acres anticipates the new board will implement policies that maintain rigorous professional standards while simultaneously encouraging innovation and broader industry participation. This balanced approach is viewed as increasingly vital as property development and transactions extend beyond major metropolitan centers to emerging regional hubs throughout the Philippines.
The real estate sector's expansion into provincial areas creates new opportunities and challenges that require responsive and informed regulatory oversight. The Acres organization believes the newly appointed board members possess the necessary perspective to guide the industry through this period of significant growth and transformation.
