Shanties in Intramuros to be demolished

MANILA, Philippines -   Informal settlers in Intramuros face eviction.

The Commission on Audit (COA) said structures like “lean-to, barong-barong or similar indigenous dwellings made of light and hazardous materials” would have to be demolished because they are diminishing the historical beauty and value of a major historical landmark.

A 2010 COA report said many of these makeshift houses and other similar structures are built along the streets of General Luna, Cabildo, Victoria, and Basco, which lead to tourist attractions like Fort Santiago and the San Augustin Church.

The law creating the Intramuros Administration (IA) does not allow barong-barong or similar indigenous dwellings “unless temporary and incidental to construction activities,” according to the COA report.

 The IA management for its part said it will endorse the matter to its legal consultants and the Office of the Solicitor General for the preparation of an Implementing Rules and Regulations.