Crisis center ‘in crisis’ due to informal settlers

CEBU, Philippines- The construction of Cebu’s crisis center is itself facing another crisis after it has been halted again, this time, due to the resistance of some informal settlers to move out from the lot where the facility is mounted.

The project was supposed to be operational in July this year, but its completion is still 20 percent, said provincial engineer Hector Jamora, who supervises the construction.

He said there are at least two families inhabiting the lot situated in Sudlon, Lahug that need to be relocated.

The province’s real estate division has already sent demand letters to them.

“Ang usa  willing na mobalhin… Ilang gipuy-an di man na sa ila g’yud, gipapuyo lang sila. Karon di man sila mopahawa, affected atong activity,” Jamora told reporters.

Apart from being hampered by the informal settlers, the project could not proceed just yet pending the issuance of the cutting permit from the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office for some trees that may be affected, Jamora added.

He could not recall the number of trees that need to be cut down.

Jamora said they are hoping to resolve the issue the soonest time possible and complete the project before the year ends.

Several ground breaking ceremonies for the project were held in the past years, the latest being in February this year.

Once completed, the crisis center would be the first in the province. It would house women and children who are victims of any forms of violence and exploitation, and children in conflict with the law.

The facility is located at the back of the Cebu Provincial Police Office.

The provincial government set aside P10 million this year for the construction of the center which will have a 40-bed capacity and be manned by social workers and doctors.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development pledged to fund the expansion of the building

A livelihood center will also be established inside the facility.  (FREEMAN)