SHFC Extends Legal Support to Victims of Fraudulent Pampanga Housing Project
The Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) has announced it will provide comprehensive assistance to individuals impacted by illegal housing schemes in Magalang, Pampanga. This move comes in response to widespread complaints from residents who were allegedly deceived by a group promoting an unregistered housing project.
Legal Assistance for Over 1,500 Affected Individuals
SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa confirmed that the agency is prepared to offer legal aid, including assigning lawyers, to more than 1,500 people who claim to have been victimized. The fraudulent scheme involved the illegal collection of payments for a supposed housing development called Sto. Niño Residences Homeowners’ Association, Inc., which is not registered with SHFC and never submitted any application to the agency.
Laxa emphasized that SHFC remains committed to supporting the affected residents. "They only need to coordinate with us, and we will wholeheartedly address their complaints," he stated. "They are victims, and we want them to obtain justice for what was done to them."
Coordination with Government Agencies
In addition to legal support, SHFC will help victims liaise with other government bodies, such as the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the National Bureau of Investigation, to ensure appropriate actions are taken against the perpetrators. This coordinated effort aims to streamline the process for victims seeking redress and accountability.
Background of the Fraudulent Scheme
The agency's statement follows numerous complaints about individuals posing as SHFC representatives to promote the housing project and collect payments. Reports indicate that tarpaulins bearing SHFC's name were displayed to announce a groundbreaking activity for the project, despite the agency never granting permission or authorization for such use.
Laxa urged the public to exercise caution, advising them to verify housing projects thoroughly to avoid falling prey to unscrupulous actors. He highlighted the importance of due diligence in preventing similar incidents in the future.
For further inquiries, SHFC can be contacted through its official website or phone line, as the agency continues to uphold its mission of providing legitimate housing solutions and protecting citizens from fraud.
