Parañaque to relocate families in danger zones

The Parañaque City government is set to relocate 500 families affected by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clearing operation that targets shanties situated in "danger zones" like rivers, creeks, railroad tracks or under bridges.

The relocation plan was discussed during recent meeting among Parañaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe, officials of the MMDA, the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, the Presidential Commission on Human Rights, barangays and representatives of informal settlers.

The inter-agency meeting held at Parañaque City Hall was organized by the Urban Mission Areas Development Office (UMADO).

Bernabe said they have to make necessary preparations for an orderly relocation before any demolition can take place.

"Through coordination with the MMDA as well as other people involved, we will undertake the necessary measures to ensure the safety and welfare of affected families," the mayor said.

Both Bernabe and Councilor Edward Co also requested UMADO to come up with a census to identify beneficiaries.

On the issue of families that might return to the danger zones, UMADO said these persons would be arrested on charges of being "professional squatters."

The proposed relocation site is a private property located in Calamba, Laguna and will be subdivided and awarded to the beneficiaries.

City Administrator Noli Aldip said there would be plenty of employment opportunities that await affected families because several factories and companies have also relocated to the area.

"For those who would rather go back in the province, financial assistance of P5,000 through the Balik-Probinsya Program will be provided by the MMDA and the City Council through Councilor Co, who is also the chairman of the Committee on Urban Mission Areas Development.

Bernabe said the relocation has been scheduled for April 3 to give the affected families time to prepare and to let their children finish the school year before demolition starts.