Fire victims’ fate up to lot owner

CEBU, Philippines — The fate of the 32 families whose houses in Barangay Duljo-Fatima were razed by fire last January 5 is still unknown.

The property where the houses used to stand is reportedly owned by Hospicio de San Jose, the first home for the aged in Cebu established in Barili town in 1925.

Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor Head Genevieve Alcoseba said her office will coordinate with the lot owner to settle the issue on the private property.

DWUP conducted a boundary survey yesterday as part of the re-blocking plan.

Hospicio de San Jose, however, told The FREEMAN that they have yet to receive a communication from the Cebu City government.

The affected residents are in favor of the reblocking scheme, which will allow the establishment of wider roads to provide more access to fire trucks and other vehicles in times of emergencies.

The scheme, however, will reduce the lot allocations of some families owing to the provision of access roads. — Isabella G. Obor (FREEMAN)