Subject: Property Management or Dictatorship?

Grand Residence Cebu
888 Pres. Roxas St.,
Cebu City

Ryan Bernard Go, President Grand Land Inc
Governor M.J. Cuenco Avenue
6000 Cebu City, Cebu

Joey Radovan, Country Head JLL Philippines
19th floor, NEX Tower, 6786 Ayala Ave,
Legazpi Village, Makati, 1229 Metro Manila

Subject: Property Management or Dictatorship?

Dear Mr. Go and Mr. Radovan,

We hope this letter finds you well. We, the undersigned unit owners and residents of Grand Residences Cebu - North Tower A, East Tower A, and East Tower B, wish to bring to your attention some pressing concerns regarding the property management practices in our condominium.

The essence of our unease lies in the consistent imposition of policies and decisions without due consideration for the rights and opinions of unit owners and residents. We wish to underscore the importance of obtaining our consent before implementing policies that directly impact our properties. This fundamental principle is not just a matter of courtesy but a legal right inherent to property ownership.

1. Right to Consent:
The consistent imposition of policies without seeking the informed consent of unit owners and residents raises serious concerns. Changes are enforced without adequate consideration for our feedback and consent, creating an environment that feels autocratic.

2. Discriminatory Pet Regulations:
Current pet policies, especially those restricting pets in certain areas, are perceived as discriminatory. We insist on a fair and inclusive policy for pet owners, respecting our right to enjoy public spaces with our pets.

3. Monthly Statements:
The provision of accurate and timely Monthly Statements of Account (SOA) is crucial for transparency and accountability. Prompt and accurate communication is highly lacking.

4. Inadequate Lobby Operations and Delivery Processes:
Lobby guards display indifference to assisting residents, hindering the receipt of packages. Immediate action is required. The current method of receiving deliveries and parcels needs improvement. Despite association dues being allocated for spaces such as the lobbies, receipt of packages by lobby staff is disallowed. A standardized and secure system is warranted.

5. Facility Usage:
Moreover, unsecured exit doors in the East Tower pose a security risk. Immediate measures are requested. The conversion of the mailbox room into a stockroom is inconvenient for residents, and clarity on facility usage is crucial. Our right to proper mail handling and access to common facilities must be preserved.

6. Unilateral Vehicle Policies:
The imposition of car sticker regulations without residents' prior consent raises serious questions about fairness and necessity. We insist on a fair and inclusive policy for car owners, respecting our right to utilize our properties.

7. Lack of Visitor Parking Spaces:
The absence of visitor parking spaces since the April 2023 fire creates undue inconvenience for guests and relatives. This reflects a lack of prior planning and provision for emergency parking spaces on the part of the property developer. We emphasize that the disallowance of visitor parking not only inconveniences our guests but also raises questions about the property's initial planning, especially when it comes to the provision of emergency parking spaces.

8. Emergency Response:
The recent fire incident highlighted a lack of an organized emergency response plan. We insist on a review and improvement of emergency response protocols, again highlighting the lack of prior planning and provisions on the management and development side.

9. Structural Integrity:
Several units report issues with non-waterproofing and the absence of termite-proofing measures, threatening the structural integrity of the building. Immediate action is required to address these issues.

10. Community Engagement:
Furthermore, the lack of communication and community involvement, exemplified by the absence of regular meetings and a call for an election, is unacceptable. We assert our right to be actively involved in decisions affecting our community.

11. Financial Transparency:
Residents continuously receive accounting statements months overdue, accompanied by late fees. We request detailed financial statements to ensure transparency in accounting practices and the proper utilization of collected funds.

12. Communication and Decision-Making:
Residents feel consistently excluded from crucial decisions that directly impact their homes and living experience. Changes are implemented without our consent, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a dictatorship, where important decisions are made without the inclusion of those affected. We assert our legal right to participate in decisions that shape our living environment.

Suggested Next Steps and Solutions:
13. Immediate Review of Policies:
A thorough and transparent review of existing policies, especially those related to late accounting statements, car sticker requirements, visitor parking spaces, package handling, permit processing, and communication protocols, is imperative.

14. Enhanced Communication Channels:
Implementation of more efficient and responsive communication channels is essential. Residents need timely responses to inquiries and complaints. Consider establishing a dedicated platform for residents to voice concerns and receive updates, respecting our right to be informed and to give consent.

15. Digital Transition:
Embrace a digital transition for administrative processes such as permit submissions, billing, and document requirements. This will not only reduce paper waste but also streamline processes for both residents and management, honoring our right to efficiency.

16. Community Engagement:
Establish regular community engagement sessions to involve residents in decision-making processes. Seek input on key decisions that impact the community to ensure a more inclusive and democratic approach, acknowledging our right to participate in decisions that affect our community.

17. Transparent Decision-Making:
Commit to transparent decision-making by providing timely updates on changes and involving residents in discussions that affect the community. This will enhance trust and collaboration between management and residents, respecting our right to a participatory decision-making process.

We believe that addressing these concerns promptly is crucial for the overall improvement of living conditions and the satisfaction of all residents at Grand Residences Cebu. We kindly request a meeting to discuss these matters further and work towards viable solutions.

Thank you for your immediate attention to these serious concerns. A copy of this letter with attached details and recommendations has also been furnished to the property manager on-site.

Sincerely,

Residents, Grand Residence Cebu