Homeowners in Carreta seek council’s help to stop NHA-initiated demolition

CEBU, Philippines - A homeowners’ association in Barangay Carreta is requesting the Cebu City Council to help them avert an impending demolition of their houses by the National Housing Authority.

Members of the Upper Carreta Homeowners Association requested the council to conduct an inquiry into the underlying issues between the residents who opted to stay on their occupied lots and the NHA.

“Some legal issues have been hinting us to take legal action as to how we can oppose the demolition basing on court orders stating that we are the direct beneficiaries of an expropriated land,” said Rhodora Pijls, the association president.

In a letter sent to Councilor Sisinio Andales, Pijls claimed that they have the pertinent documents to prove that they are the rightful beneficiaries of the expropriated lot, which were affirmed by the lower courts, Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court.

“It will be our most pleasure to trust the honorable councilman to help us shed light on matters of pursuing into legal battle for our right on the expropriated lot base on court orders,” said Pijls, adding that they are seeking immediate attention to avoid “social injustice to plague us.”

The council, in its recent session, agreed to hold an executive session that will specifically tackle the association’s plight. The special session is scheduled on July 23.

The City Legal Office as well as the Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor is invited to join the discussion and hopefully help the residents against the threat of their houses being demolished.

The letter, which Andales received on June 2, 2014, was also signed by the association vice president, Gary Catubig, secretary Leah Catubig, and treasurer Maria Luz Ancajas.  (FREEMAN)