CH closes seven shops at Citi Center

CEBU, Philippines - In preparation of the housing project for city hall employees, authorities yesterday started clearing the occupants of the Citi Center in Barangay Kamagayan.

At least seven establishments occupying the center were closed by the Prevention Restoration Order Beautification Enhancement (PROBE) team at 1 p.m. yesterday.

"Dugay na kaayo naa ang closure order, mga one year ago pa. Ato silang gitagaan og chance nga mogamit sa building even without rent. Ato na silang pahawaon kay gamiton na man sa city ang lugar," said PROBE chief Raquel Arce.

Apart from city housing, the area will also be used for the offices of the center for street dwellers, anti mendicancy task force, and Building Maintenance Section.

Among the seven establishments closed by PROBE were four printing presses, one motor repair shop, and two general merchandising.

While noting that four have secured business permits, Arce said all seven have not been paying rent to the city government.

"Siguro naay nagkolekta nila og rent but wala g’yud na napunta sa city government. We don't question their permits, ang atoa nga gamiton na sa city ang luna," she said.

Close to a hundred homes inside the Citi Center will be the next target to be cleared for the second phase, the PROBE chief said.— (FREEMAN)