Talisay City gov’t sued for using ‘private’ lots

CEBU, Philippines - For allegedly refusing to pay the just compensation for parcels of land totaling over 3,000 square meters that were converted into public roads, the city government of Talisay is now facing charges in court.

Cebu Realty, Inc. has filed a civil case for judicial determination of just compensation before the court against the City of Talisay, represented by Mayor Johnny V. De Los Reyes.

"Wherefore, premises considered, it is most respectfully prayed of this Honorable Court that after due notice and hearing in accordance with law a decision is rendered setting the amount of the just compensation for the parcels of land with a total area of 3,044 square meters which were converted into public roads by the City of Talisay," the complaint read.

Cebu Realty, Inc. is the registered owner of three parcels of land in Talisay City, Cebu, particularly Road Lot 23 covered by Transfer Certificates of Title (TCT) 16429 with 2,769 square meters; portion of Road Lot 25 covered by TCT 16431 with 77 square meters and Lot No 12 covered by TCT 16293 with 198 square meters.

However, the petitioner said the three parcels of land were allegedly converted into public roads and had since been used by the residents of Camella Homes and neighboring residents as an access road to the national highway.

"The City of Talisay has effectively taken over the said parcels of land which are private properties of the herein petitioner in the interest of and for the benefit of the general public and in the exercise of its police owner," Cebu Realty, Inc. said, adding that they sent a letter to the Office of the City Mayor to demand payment of just compensation.

The realty company further said despite repeated demands, the City of Talisay "continue to ignore the valid and legal claims," thus, "effectively deprived" them of its use and enjoyment.

The respondents have yet to answer the complaint filed against them. — /BRP (FREEMAN)