Demolition subjects offered relocation

CEBU, Philippines - The Talisay City government has offered relocation sites to the families affected by the ongoing demolition at the Borromeo Property in Barangays Lawaan II and III.

City Administrator Richel Bacaltos said the affected residents will only have to visit the local housing office to apply for relocation.

He said that instead of meddling with the current situation, providing a relocation site is the best assistance the city government can provide the affected residents.

The affected residents earlier approached Mayor Socrates Fernandez for help, but Bacaltos said that since the demolition is covered with a court order, the local government could no longer stop the same.

Lawyer Raul Sesbreño who claims ownership of the vast property started demolishing the more than 40 houses thereat. Sesbreño said that contrary to claims of the residents, he owns the seven-hectare property as it was the payment he was given by the Borromeo heirs for his legal services.

Bacaltos said the city has a number of relocation sites where these families can build their new homes.

During their department meeting last Tuesday, Bacaltos said this matter was raised and from there the local housing board was tasked to identify the available slots where the affected families would be transferred to. - THE FREEMAN