House to NHCP: Stop Torre de Manila developer

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives urged the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) yesterday to stop a developer from pursuing its plan to build a high-rise condominium that would spoil the view of the iconic monument of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at the Luneta Park.

The House committee on Metro Manila development, chaired by Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo, held yesterday a public hearing on the issue of the 49-story Torre de Manila condominium being put up by DMCI Homes.

The construction is being opposed before the Supreme Court (SC) by the Knights of Rizal for violating regulations protecting the view of the Rizal monument.

The lawmaker said the panel is inclined to urge NHCP to issue a CDO (cease and desist order) on DMCI due to alleged misrepresentation. He said the hearing showed that DMCI failed to obtain an exemption to six-story height restriction in the construction area. 

Reluctant?

NHCP deputy executive director Carminda Arevalo said she could not promise that the agency would issue a CDO to DMCI as the case is still pending before the SC. 

“You have been issuing CDOs left and right, why can’t you stop DMCI’s project despite the strong opposition from a number of sectors?” Abakada Rep. Jonathan dela Cruz asked Arevalo. 

The official, however, later told the panel that the NHCP board will take up the matter on Nov. 22 after she was pressed by Caloocan City Rep. Edgar Erice. 

“It is clear from DMCI’s testimony that they built the project without getting the exemption from city hall first. They were approved a project for only six stories when all along they intended to build 49 stories. Clearly, there is deception in their actions,” Erice said. 

Buhay party-list Rep. Lito Atienza, a former Manila mayor, described the Torre de Manila as a “monstrosity” that defiled the iconic Rizal monument.

“We only have one Luneta, one Bagumbayan. They can build condominiums anywhere they want,” Atienza said.

Kabataan party-list Rep. Terry Ridon hit the DMCI for hiding behind legalities to press on with the construction even if it will “desecrate” the monument.