Council probe sought on impending demolition

CEBU, Philippines - The informal settlers who are set to be displaced by the clearing operation beside the Cebu Technological University are asking the council’s help to be able to continue occupy their place of living and livelihood for almost three decades now.

The residents are asking the City Council to investigate the alleged violation of their rights. 

In a letter to Councilor Alvin Dizon, the residents lamented that they are not given due process or ample time to find a place to stay because the Squatters Prevention and Encroachment Elimination Division advised that they will be demolished anytime.

The residents said the place has been their area for livelihood since the 1980s and their sudden displacement would be hard especially in this time of economic crisis.

“Dako jud ang among kasagmuyo kay sa gidugayon sa among pagpuyo, nganung gipaspasan ang pagpahawa kanamo. Lisod kaayo sa among bahin nga mapahawa sa maong lugar kay anaa man kami nanginabuhi,” the residents said.

They said their children will be greatly affected who are all attending classes.  They said that should the city insists on evicting them, it should make sure first that the relocation sites are liveable. They also demand alternative vending site for residents who will be affected by the demolition.

The residents, who call themselves CTU Palma Association, presented an alternative development policy to the city government.

Under the alternative development policy, the residents promise to maintain cleanliness, beautify the place specifically their stalls and restore the 1.5-meter sidewalk.

The residents also pledged to maintain peace and order in the place especially the security in the campus.  (FREEMAN)