Talisay fishermen cry foul over fence near settlement

CEBU, Philippines – A group of fishermen in Talisay City is worried after a private individual tried to fence the area they are currently settling in Sitio Litmon, Barangay Dumlog.

They brought up their concern to the Talisay City Council during the regular session yesterday.

Ronnie Sabequil, president of Litmon Fishermen Association, shared their sentiments to the city officials asking their advice.

He said they have lived peacefully in the place ever since his childhood. He is now asking why a private individual is trying to "meddle" in their settlement.

The families to be affected could reach 100 more or less.

Sabequil said the private individual, who he refused to name, sent them a letter informing them of a January 2016 deadline.

City Councilor Doroteo Emit, chairman of the Committee on Urban Poor, said the group was not recognized by the urban poor association, which prompted him to advise them to work on the accreditation for the council to intervene with their concerns.

He said once the group of fishermen is accredited, then they may get protection under the UDHA law.

UDHA Law or Republic Act No. 7279 provides for a comprehensive and continuing urban development and housing program, establish the mechanism for its implementation, and for other purposes.

Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, city council's presiding officer, said that the council's move was to instruct the Office of the Building Officials (OBO) to check whether the area involved was already titled.

He added that the residents may not abandon their houses yet until court order will be issued. (FREEMAN)