DMCI asks SC: Allow Torre construction

MANILA, Philippines - The developer of Torre de Manila condominium has pushed for the dismissal of the petition of Knights of Rizal seeking the demolition of the building that ruins the iconic sight line of the monument of Jose Rizal in Rizal Park.

DMCI Project Developer Inc. reiterated its prayer for the Supreme Court (SC) to lift its temporary restraining order (TRO) and allow the construction of the 49-story building.

It stressed that the TRO issued by the SC amounts to an unjust interference with its right to property.

 “The construction of Torre de Manila did not and does not violate any laws, rules on easement or requirements of aerial navigation. The construction of Torre de Manila was in fact authorized by the concerned national and local government agencies. In particular, the City of Manila did not and does not object to the construction of Torre de Manila,” the firm argued in its 116-page memorandum filed earlier this week.

The developer insisted that government heritage agencies have no jurisdiction over Torre de Manila since it was built on a private property outside Rizal Park or any heritage zone.

It added the Rizal Monument was declared a national cultural treasure one year after the developer obtained all government permits for the project.