Legal Process of Ejecting Squatters in the Philippines: 6 Simplified Steps

Proper Way to Eject a Squatter From Your Lot According to Philippine Laws

If you have a long-unused lot property and have recently found out that some unauthorized individuals are occupying it, this can be distressing. Even worse, you may not have any idea how to deal with these squatters on your property. According to Philippine laws, there are legal ways to boot them out as the property owner. Read on to learn how to legally eject informal settlers from your real property in the Philippines.

6 Steps to Eject Squatters from Private Property

Let’s say the property owner and the squatters are living in the same barangay. Here are the humane ways to eject them:
Step 1: Send a notarized demand letter via registered mail. This is to formally let the squatters know that you are demanding that they leave the property, usually within 30 days. You can use this letter as evidence in the future in case you need to file a formal case.
Step 2: Request for Barangay conciliation, as mandated under the Katarungang Pambarangay Law or RA 7160. This is to give both parties the chance to firmly discuss the matter and come up with an agreement to save time and money. Also, this is a requirement for Barangay Certification to File Action if you need to proceed to the court.
Step 3: File an ejectment case if barangay mediation didn’t work. In this step, you will need a lawyer to handle the case. This will take time for the court to come up with a decision since the squatters can still appeal or bond out. You can use the documents gathered in steps 1 and 2 for the court hearing preparations.
Step 4: Attend the court hearings to prove ownership. Here, you can present all the documents, including the land title, tax declaration, and other legal requirements. If the case favors you, then it’s time to proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Request an Order of Ejectment from the court. This court order indicates the specific date when the squatters must vacate the property. And if they still don’t leave, the next step will be your last resort.
Step 6: Get Writ of Execution. This will order the sheriff and Philippine National Police personnel to eject the informal settlers, whether they like it or not. As the owner, you should not be present during this operation to avoid more conflicts. Instead of hiring a demolition team, let the authorities handle the ejection of squatters from your property to prevent further resistance.

Final Thoughts

Evicting squatters in the Philippines should be done in a legal way to avoid criminal charges for the owner. Always consult a lawyer and follow the legal steps to ensure a smooth ejection process. If you have more questions regarding the matter, please visit us at REALS.PH website. You can also browse through our online listings for house and lot in Baguio City and other major cities nationwide.