Residents try to prevent demolition in Talamban

CEBU, Philippines – The demolition of 20 shanties in Lower Tayong, barangay Talamban was delayed for a few hours yesterday when residents barricaded the area and barred the entry of authorities.

The demolition team backed up policemen including elements from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), were held back by about 150 residents, who linked arms and declared that they were willing to fight for their right to stay in the place.

The residents however eventually allowed the demolition team to do its job when a court order was presented by court Sheriff Lloyd Tagalog. This was signed by Judge Gil Acosta of MTC Branch 3 on Feb. 17, 2009.

The plaintiff, Peter Po claimed ownership of more or less 9,000 square meters of the land.

In the order, it was stated that a compromise agreement was reached by both the plaintiff and the residents on May 17, 2006 giving the settlers a grace period to stay from March 23 of that year until 2007.

However, after the said dates or within the given period, the residents would have to voluntarily vacate the area.

Also, the agreement stated that the residents would have to pay P250 per month as rent within the grace period and if they will fail to leave after one year, they would have to pay P1,000.

Both parties also reportedly agreed to the compromise agreement and if breached then a writ of execution could be filed by the aggrieved party.

Aurelio Carpenter, head of the Nagkahiusang Katawhan sa Lower Tayong, said that this has been the second time their shanties were demolished since Vicente Leyson Jr. also filed a case in the MTC Branch 5 and also claimed ownership of the land.

Carpenter and his family, who have lived in the area for more than 30 years, claimed that they were harassed by members of the SWAT during the demolition.

However, SWAT members who were present denied such allegations emolition took place without any violent incident.

Representatives from the Commission on Human Rights were also present to ensure that the proper process would be followed.

Carpenter said that even if they want to go to court, they don’t have the money to file a case.

He said that they are asking Congressman Raul Del Mar to initiate a House inquiry on the matter and also ask the city government to help them convert the lot for socialized housing. 

Carpenter added that even if their househave been demolished they would not leave the place. – AJ de la Torre/NLQ (THE FREEMAN)