May 28, 2019

SECRETARY MARK VILLAR

Office of the Secretary
Department of Public Work and Highways (DPWH)
Manila, Philippines

Dear Secretary Villar,

Greetings!

I am Zosima Cantoneros, a resident of the Municipality of Loay, Province of Bohol, Philippines.

I had recently planned to construct a building over a parcel of land owned and possessed by me located
in the above-mentioned municipality, evidenced by a tax declaration under my name. Relative to this, I
had applied for the corresponding building permit in compliance with the requirements under the
applicable laws. However, I was refused the issuance of a building permit by the municipal engineer, the
latter reasoning out that parcel of lands covered solely by tax declarations cannot be issued a building
permit. Although my understanding, based on the advice of my lawyer and the provincial legal office, I
may validly be issued a building permit based on the tac declaration under my name and pending the free
patent application I had instituted long time ago.

I was informed by the municipal engineer that I am better off asking the advice of DPWH regarding the
matter.

I, most respectfully request, that your most honorable office issue a written advice on the matter on
whether or not I may be issued a building permit based on my predicament.

Thank you and more power!

Sincerely,

ZOSIMA CANTONEROS