Creek settlers' request for extension opposed

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Squatters Prevention Encroachment Elimination Division (SPEED) is not in favor of granting a two-month extension to informal settlers living along the Lahing-Lahing Creek in Barangay Mabolo to remove their structures.

SPEED chief Noel Artes said these residents had asked Mayor Michael Rama to reconsider City Hall’s July 27 deadline for them to vacate, requesting that they be given 60 days to stay.

The affected residents said their relocation will affect the studies of their children.

 “Mahisama ra unya kana sa mga nagpuyo didto sa Mahiga Creek nga inigkapupos sa extention mangayo na usab og laing extention hangtod nga wala nay kahumanan ang paghangyo,” said Artes.

The City Hall had advised the 35 families living along the Lahing-Lahing Creek to vacate so the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) can start the dredging.

The dredging is aimed at returning the creek to its original width and depth.

According to Artes, the city can no longer wait for a long time to attend to the problem of flooding in the area.

Rama said floodwater in the area reached to as high as eight feet during the heavy downpour on January 25.

Artes said Mabolo barangay captain Reynaldo Ompoc informed him that there are about 200 families living within the three-meter easement of the creek.

But he clarified that the dredging will affect 35 families.

Artes said those affected by the clearing will be given temporary shelter at Block 27 in North Reclamation Area.   - (THE FREEMAN)