Shanties, illegal structures removed from Sambag II

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City government has demolished some 30 shanties and other illegal structures reportedly encroaching the sidewalk at B. Rodriguez Ext. in Barangay Sambag II.

Raquel Arce, chief of the Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement  team that conducted the clearing operation, said they have completely restored the area without any protest from the residents affected.

“So far, hapsay ra, way resistance gikan nila kay natagaan man nato sila og 72-hour notice before ta mang-guba,” Arce said.

Aside from the shanties, PROBE also cleared the area of canopies protruding from a few houses including the concrete tubs of roadside eateries.

PROBE personnel also confiscated tricycles, animal cages, plant boxes, large tarpaulins and other obstructions in the sidewalk near the TB Pavillion.

“Ang mga tawo sa d’an na man mang-agi gud, dili na sa sidewalk, tungod ani,” Arce said.

Arce said they cleared the area in cooperation with the Anti-Mendicancy Board, which reportedly received the complaint and the request from officials of Sambag II.

Sambag II is currently implementing a road-cementing project in the area but could not proceed with developing the curb and gutter because of the encroaching structures.

The residents did not complain and signified their interest to help restore the area.

Arce said more clearing operations are set to be conducted within the week including the demolition of the BMS building near Senior Citizens Park.

“Gub-on na man gyud na kay himuong park. We will have a meeting with the vendors to inform them na obstruction na sila once ma-clear na ang building diha,” she said.  (FREEMAN)