New price set for 93-1 lots

CEBU, Philippines - The Province of Cebu and the 126 occupants of two province-owned lots covered by Provincial Ordinance 93-1 in Barangay Busay in Cebu City have finally reached an agreement after 25 years of uncertainties.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia called it as a “breakthrough” when they agreed on a lot price because the homeowners association through its officers took the initiatives.

The governor, though, did not disclose the agreed price as she still has to present it to the Provincial Board within the week to explain how they arrived at the formula.

“If this can be followed by other associations, kanindot,” Garcia told reporters after meeting with the Skyview Village Homeowners Association of Barangay Busay yesterday.

There are still 10 more barangays in Cebu City where province-owned lots occupied by residents are covered by Ordinance 93-1.

Residents of Barangay Busay earlier expressed their interest to buy the entire 5.2 hectares of lot.

Garcia conducted a series of meetings with the residents until they have agreed a formula for a per-square meter of lot price.

In a meeting yesterday, a wide range of financing options was also presented by representatives of Socialized Housing Finance Corporation and Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-Ibig Fund.

Vice President Jejomar Binay who heads the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council was also represented by his consultant, Chito Borromeo. 

“At any rate however way they will finance it, the Capitol will be assured of full payment, in lump sum also, dili sama sa nahitabo sa una nga kami na nangolekta, na collection agent intawn mi diri,” Garcia said.

The residents informed that they intend to avail of a loan from Cebu CFI Community Cooperative as they are all members.

The Province of Cebu, the homeowners association and the financing institution are set to sign a memorandum of agreement soon in the presence of Binay, said Garcia.

The agreement will stipulate the terms by which the parties have reached an agreement of the disposal of Lots 3 and 4 in Busay.

The next to be met on Monday are the four associations of five lots in Barangay Kalunasan.

 “We will proceed in a manner that is just and fair to everyone concerned including my greatest obligation to the constituents of the Province of Cebu,” Garcia pointed out.

She said she must also see to it that she can defend whatever price that they can arrive at that is just and fair to the Province of Cebu and to the residents.

“Wad-on ta na lang to’ng mga tinguha nga maka ganansiya ta, maka delehensiya ta kung nag-speculate ta nga real estate broker ta. Ang ato gitinguha niini ang matinud-anon nga pakigsabot tungod kay ang mga residents karon would also wish to achieve security of tenure alang sa ilang mga anak, mga apo, and the future generations,” she said.

Garcia added that what they have achieved in Barangay Busay maybe a template in other areas. — (FREEMAN)