Three hurt in Payatas demolition

The demolition of some 100 houses in Payatas, Quezon City yesterday morning turned violent when squatters resisted, leaving at least three persons hurt.

Those hurt were identified as Marilou and Salustiana Pundario, and a member of the demolition team under the District Management Group Personnel (DMGP). The two residents were taken to the East Avenue Medical Center for treatment.

Initial reports from Central Police District-Station 6 in Batasan revealed that the demolition began about 10 a.m. at Payatas Area-B.

When the demolition team, composed of elements of the CPD-SWAT, DMGP and CPD-Station 6, started to dismantle houses, they were met with rocks hurled by residents. Chaos then ensued, stalling the demolition. Only the Mahal na Puso ni Hesus chapel was dismantled.

According to Gary Panibon of human rights organization Karapatan-NCR, some 2,000 houses have been demolished in the area since October.

Eli Quinsay, representative of the owner of the property, said they have documents proving ownership of the land along Espiritu street.

Residents were twice sent notices to vacate the area by the local government.– Katherine Adraneda