Section 2Sec./Art. 2

Declaration of State Policy and Program Objectives. - It shall be the policy of the State to undertake, in cooperation with the private sector, a comprehensive and continuing Urban Development and Housing Program, hereinafter referred to as the Program, which shall:

a. Uplift the conditions of the underprivileged and homeless citizens in urban areas and in resettlement areas by making available to them decent housing at affordable cost, basic services, and employment opportunities;

b. Provide for the rational use and development of urban land in order to bring about the following:

1. Equitable utilization of residential lands in urban and urbanizable areas with particular attention to the needs and requirements of the underprivileged and homeless citizens and not merely on the basis of market forces;

2. Optimization of the use and productivity of land and urban resources;

3. Development of urban areas conducive to commercial and industrial activities which can generate more economic opportunities for the people;

4. Reduction in urban dysfunctions, particularly those that adversely affect public health, safety and ecology; and

5. Access to land and housing by the underprivileged and homeless citizens;

c. Adopt workable policies to regulate and direct urban growth and expansion towards a dispersed urban net and more balanced urban-rural interdependence;

d. Provide for an equitable land tenure system that shall guarantee security of tenure to Program beneficiaries but shall respect the rights of small property owners and ensure the payment of just compensation;

e. Encourage more effective people's participation in the urban development process; and

f. Improve the capability of local government units in undertaking urban development and housing programs and projects.