Pagtambayayong intervention junked: Judge says the foundation misled the court

CEBU, Philippines - The court yesterday denied the motion for intervention filed by Pagtambayayong Foundation in the petition for injunction the Mahiga creek settlers filed against Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama.

Judge Soliver Peras of Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 10 verbally denied the motion of Pagtambayayong represented by its president, Bimbo Fernandez, for misleading the court.

In yesterday’s hearing, the judge pointed out that Fernandez represents the families affected by the demolition the Mahiga creek.

Fernandez explained that he only represents the affected families because they asked for help. He added that although he is not affected by the demolition, he feels pity for the victims.

Also, the affected families have no money to pay all the expenses in court so he had to represent them. Angelito Miego, one of those affected by the clearing at the creek, said they sought the help of Fernandez as they have no money.

But Fernandez said they will abide by whatever decision from court.

Meanwhile, the Cebu City Government filed a motion to dismiss the Mahiga settlers’ petition for their failure to state the cause of action.

The legal counsel of the City Government, Leslie Ann Reyes, said none of the affected families are members of the Pagtambayayong Foundation.

Judge Peras gave the Pagtambayayong Foundation five days to file their opposition.

The residents of Mahiga filed an injunction claiming the City did not provide them with relocation.

But the City Government told the court they have a relocation site provided with light, water and medical team to look after the settlers.

Reyes said some of the Mahiga settlers are now occupying the relocation site at the North Reclamation Area. (FREEMAN)