Demolition in brgy Apas continues

CEBU, Philippines - The demolition of houses in sitio San Miguel, Barangay Apas resumed last Thursday after the court denied the residents’ petition for a preliminary injunction and temporary restraining order (TRO).

As of yesterday, more than 30 houses have been destroyed by the demolition team following instruction of court sheriff Edilberto Suarin, who served the writ of demolition.

The wrecking crew first destroyed the houses of those who have received payment from Aletha Sucio-Magat, the claiming owner of the contested lots number 942 and 947.

Also, among the destroyed houses were owned by those who failed to pay the P11,000 supersedeas bond, or the writ that suspends the authority of the court to issue an execution order on a judgment that has been appealed.

Further, the houses of the 20 families that accepted P50,000 as financial assistance during the court hearing last Wednesday are scheduled to be demolished on April 15.

Barangay Captain Ramil Ayuman, in an interview with The FREEMAN, said that for now, the residents will not oppose the demolition.

“Naa mi strategy na giandam karon,” said Ayuman, referring to a legal remedy that they will file before the court since the TRO was denied.

“Mao lagi. Nagpaabot na lang mi na ang higayon mu-favor namo,” the barangay captain said.

At the City Hall, lawyer Janesses Ponce, Land Management Council chairperson, said they cannot intervene in the ongoing demolition since there have been no violations committed.

“The city is there to find out if the implementation of the writ or demolition is legal,” said Ponce.

The residents have earlier expressed fear when Suarin filed a manifestation before the Regional Trial Court that he be allowed to continue the demolition since there was no TRO issued yet.

The demolition started last March 4 but it has since gone on and off because of the court sheriff’s alleged violations of the procedure such as hiring of minors as part of the wrecking team who reportedly were caught looting some demolished houses. —  /ATO (FREEMAN)