Apas residents seek assistance from city

CEBU, Philippines — Around 200 residents living in Lots 938 A and B, located in Purok 6 of Sitio San Miguel, Barangay Apas, have sought the intervention of the Cebu City government after a private entity announced plans to construct a perimeter fence that would block their passage.

In a letter addressed to Mayor Raymond Garcia and dated January 30, 2025, which was obtained by The Freeman yesterday, the residents requested the city government’s assistance and support, emphasizing the impact this development would have on their community.

“While we respect the legal ownership of Lot 933 by Altarica Development Corporation, the new owner, we, as residents, will be significantly affected by their plan to close the road right of way leading from the main street of Barangay Apas to Purok 6 in Lots 938 A, 938 B, and 939,” the letter stated.

The residents are urging the city government to ensure access to the affected property for both residents and four-wheeled vehicles.

They further highlighted the challenges posed by the road closure, particularly during emergencies, stressing that time is crucial, especially in health-related situations.

In response, Mayor Garcia directed Ramil Ayuman, former Barangay Apas village chief and now the City’s Public Information Officer (PIO) and head of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CCDRRMC), to assess the situation on the ground and provide proper recommendations.

Ayuman promptly conducted an assessment and noted that if the establishment were to close off the area and install a gate, it would directly affect approximately 200 residents.

He also raised concerns about the risks posed by the lack of access during emergencies, such as fires or medical crises, stating, ‘Ilabi na panahon sa mga emerhensiya sama sa sunog, pasyente gamit ang mga ambulance.’

The affected residents include five individuals undergoing chemotherapy and dialysis, 26 senior citizens, five persons with disabilities, 128 other adults, 38 children aged 11 to 18, and 45 children aged 10 and below. Additionally, there are 38 motorcycle owners and 12 owners of four-wheeled vehicles in the area.

Ayuman also pointed out that the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) operates a pumping station in the vicinity, which could be impacted if the property is closed off.

The CCDRRMC is expected to submit its own assessment report on the situation, which will be discussed in its upcoming meeting this week.

This report will serve as the basis for a final recommendation to Mayor Garcia on how to address the residents’ request. — (FREEMAN)