Tree collapse victims cry for aid

MANILA, Philippines — People affected by the collapse of a tree along a creek in Binondo, Manila are asking for help.

Among them is the family of a child who died in the accident. Alvin Portillo said that aside from the funeral expenses for two-year-old John Mark Portillo, they also have to deal with the hospitalization of his brother and the boy’s father, Jomar, 28, who has undergone three surgical procedures on his left hand and remains confined in a hospital.

Alvin said their family cannot afford the P10,000 needed for the boy’s burial.

Meanwhile, some of the 40 families who were displaced when the tree collapsed on shanties along Estero de Magdalena asked the government not to relocate them to far-flung areas since their livelihood is in Divisoria and other nearby areas.

Around 13 families are staying at the Delpan evacuation center while others chose to stay at the site of the accident.

According to officials of Barangay 294, which has jurisdiction over the site, the National Housing Authority is preparing housing units in Trece Martires and Naic in Cavite for families affected by the tree’s collapse.

ISFs in danger zones prioritized

With the rainy season fast approaching, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) yesterday vowed to prioritize the relocation of informal settler families (ISFs) living in danger zones.

The Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing “was specially programmed for those living in danger zones. President Marcos specifically ordered us to prioritize the poor families living in danger zones in the implementation” of 4PH, DHSUD Secretary Jose Acuzar said.

He issued the statement after two persons died when the tree collapsed on Thursday amid heavy rains.

Acuzar said that unlike the “unsuccessful” and “fragmented efforts” of the previous administrations in relocating ISFs living along esteros, the Marcos administration will pursue a more wholistic plan. – Elizabeth Marcelo