Consolacion folk hit development project

Residents and landowners in four barangays in Consolacion town trooped to the municipal hall yesterday morning to protest the plan to put up a government center in their areas.

Ike Maglasang, leader of the landowners and claimants of the land in barangays Pitogo, Cansaga, Jugan ang Nangka, led residents in airing their concern before the municipal council. The protesters questioned the plan of the administration of Mayor Avelino Gungob Sr. to develop their areas without holding a consultation.

Before the council allowed Maglasang to air their sentiments, councilor Blessilda Villo delivered a privilege speech questioning Gungob's handling of the affairs of the town, especially the plan to develop the vacated lot at the old market. Villo said Gungob's plan would not benefit the municipal government.

But Gungob questioned Villo's motive in questioning his plans and programs for the town, saying that the councilor questioned the plan to develop the vacated lot at the old market because the business of her family will be affected.

Villo, whose family owned a chain of bakeries in the town, questioned Gungob's plan to develop the four barangays without authority from the municipal council.

During the council session, Maglasang said the development in the four barangays was made without their approval, asking the council members if they gave authority to Gungob.

Maglasang said the municipal government should be fined by at least P50,000 for developing their areas without an Environmental Compliance Certificate from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Gungob has insisted his administration would push through with the project. - Jose P. Sollano