MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) joined forces with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to go after groups and individuals involved in real estate scams. Through the partnership with NBI, DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said on Wednesday that this would boost the law enforcement campaign to protect legitimate real estate buyers. Aliling said he was assured by NBI Director Melvin Matibag of efforts to combat real estate malpractices that victimize unsuspecting property buyers. The DHSUD leadership decided to seek NBI’s help after it confirmed reports of groups or individuals posing as legitimate real estate agents to victimize prospective property clients. “This initiative is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the protection of Filipinos aspiring to own safe, decent, and affordable housing,” the DHSUD chief said. Aliling stressed that the NBI’s expertise in investigation and law enforcement would significantly bolster DHSUD’s ongoing efforts to curb fraudulent real estate activities. The housing czar has reiterated the importance of interagency collaboration and a whole-of-government approach in addressing the issue. “We need to work together to safeguard the rights of real property buyers, ensuring that the government remains proactive in curbing fraudulent activities and in advancing safe, secure, and legitimate housing for every Filipino,” he added.