No, squatting in the Philippines is illegal under Republic Act No. 7279 (Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992) and the Revised Penal Code, criminalizing unauthorized occupation of private or public land. The Philippine National Police and local government units enforce evictions under the Anti-Squatting Law of 1954, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. Recent 2026 amendments to the National Building Code tighten compliance, requiring landowners to secure barangay clearance before evicting squatters to prevent violent confrontations.
Key Regulations for Squatting in Philippines
- Republic Act No. 7279 (1992): Prohibits squatting on private or public land, classifying it as a criminal act punishable by imprisonment (up to 6 years) and fines (₱50,000–₱500,000). The law prioritizes socialized housing programs over informal settlements.
- Revised Penal Code (Articles 287–289): Criminalizes forcible entry (Art. 287) and illegal occupation (Art. 289), with penalties escalating for violence or threats during evictions. Local courts may order demolition only after due process.
- Local Government Code (1991): Empowers barangays to mediate disputes but mandates coordination with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) for large-scale evictions. Non-compliance risks administrative sanctions against officials.