DPWH-7 expropriates lots affected by road widening

CEBU, Philippines - The government has filed a civil case for expropriation against the owners of the properties affected by the road widening project of the Department of Public Works and Highways-7 in Barangay Lagtang, Talisay City.

DPWH-7 director Ador Canlas initiated the filing of the case against David Igloria, heirs of Felipe Igloria, Galo Igloria, heirs of Danilo Igloria, Jose Igloria, heirs of Emelia Igloria, Melodia Igloria, Vicente Igloria, heirs of Resurreccion Igloria, and Virgilio Roble.

The respondents allegedly refused to sell their properties affected by the widening and improvement of the Cebu-Toledo Wharf Project in Lagtang.

Canlas said they have already offered to purchase the affected properties at P2,300 per square meter based on the appraisal of the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Due to the owners’ refusal to negotiate with the government representatives, the State through the Office of the Solicitor General was compelled to initiate the expropriation case pursuant to Section 6 of Republic Act 8974 to ensure the completion of the project.

“Considering defendants’ refusal or failure to negotiate, plaintiff is, therefore, constrained to file this complaint for expropriation in order for it to fully implement the intended project without unnecessary delay,” the complaint read.

The areas sought to be expropriated include 68 square meters owned by David; 74 square meters owned by the heirs of Felipe; 114 square meters owned by Galo; 79 square meters owned by the heirs of Danilo; 75 square meters owned by Jose; 73 square meters owned by the heirs of Emilia; 73 square meters owned by Melodia; 71 square meters owned by Vicente; 65 square meters owned by the heirs of Resurreccion; and 243 square meters owned by Roble.  (FREEMAN)