The Department of Justice (DOJ) extended free legal assistance to 71 homeowners and residents in Naic, Cavite, helping them address legal concerns and identify appropriate remedies.
The legal outreach activity was conducted on October 27, 2026, at Silver Grace Resort through the DOJ Action Center (DOJAC) Region IV-A, in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Cavite.
The program provided residents with legal counseling, guidance on government procedures, and information on agencies responsible for handling their complaints.
Among those who sought assistance was a homeowner involved in a dispute with a homeowners’ association (HOA).
DOJAC personnel explained the resident’s rights and possible legal remedies, including referral to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), which has jurisdiction over certain HOA-related disputes.
Another resident questioned additional fees allegedly imposed for garbage collection and maintenance involving a privately owned truck operating within a subdivision.
DOJAC advised the resident on possible courses of action, including seeking clarification from the Naic local government and referring the matter to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), where appropriate.
Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said the department would continue bringing legal services directly to communities to help residents overcome financial and procedural barriers to seeking justice.
“If we are serious about bringing justice closer to the Filipino people, then we must go where the people are,” Vida said.
“We will continue to bring services closer to the Filipino, one community at a time. Justice must not remain beyond anyone’s reach simply because they do not know where to seek help or cannot afford,” he added.
Vida emphasized that access to justice must not depend on a person’s financial capacity or familiarity with legal procedures.
The DOJ said the outreach activity formed part of its efforts to make government legal services more accessible and responsive to community concerns.
The department also reaffirmed its commitment to helping Filipinos understand their rights, navigate legal processes, and seek assistance from the appropriate authorities.
