Developer to rectify problems

CEBU, Philippines - Horizons 101 developer, Taft Property Ventures Development Corporation, promised to rectify any problems following the collapse of a portion of the concrete retaining wall intended for the construction of their high-rise condominium project along General Maxilom Ave., Cebu City early this week.

In a press statement, Taft Property said that they have presented to Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama and the Office of the Building Official their 60-day plan to repair the collapsed retaining wall and prevent a repeat of the incident.

According to the press statement, the plan has been approved by Dr. Salvador Reyes, the Dean of Local Geo-technical experts in the Philippines.

The OBO also reportedly accepted the Taft Properties' proposal yesterday, stressing that the plans should be strictly followed and implemented for the safety of the residents surrounding the construction site.

 Taft Properties said OBO has given them the go signal to start working on their plans.

According to OBO, corrective works are not covered by the cease and desist order which was released immediately after the retention wall collapsed, but the excavation project undertaken by ASDEC Builders Corporation is still suspended.

Taft Properties said the collapse had nothing to do with the tower's integrity and structure which is yet to be constructed at the site.

ASDEC is the contractor solely for the excavation and construction of the retaining wall surrounding the entire construction site.

Another company has been contracted for the construction of the tower itself.

"The excavation contractor (ASDEC) has no relation to the general contractor in terms of capability, resources and skills which would be prime requisites in selecting the major contractor for the tower (Horizons 101)," the statement reads.

Around eight residential houses located near the construction site have been deemed at risk by OBO after the retention wall collapse.

Taft Properties are currently supporting the affected house owners by providing them temporary shelters and other basic necessities.(FREEMAN)