Squatters at NCRPO compound face eviction

At least 200 houses erected by illegal settlers at the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) compound in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City will be demolished this month.

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group (SCOG) has been asked to help carry demolish the houses of the illegal settlers, some of whom are families of retired and active police officials and personnel, on Sept. 26.

In a letter to MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando, Senior Superintendent Co Yee Co Jr. said the NCRPO has been conducting dialogues with the illegal settlers in order to ensure a smooth and peaceful demolition.

SCOG chief Bobby Esquivel, who also heads the MMDA’s Traffic Enforcement Group (TEG), said the NCRPO is very serious in its move to clear Camp Bagong Diwa of informal settlers.

He said retired policemen had been illegally turning parts of the compound into a residential area, and the presence of squatters endangers the NCRPO headquarters because officials are unable to control the entry and exit of unauthorized persons.

“Camp Bagong Diwa is a vital installation,” Esquivel said, noting that criminals can easily pose as residents. – Michael Punongbayan