CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City government is set to purchase a private lot occupied by at least 35 urban poor families in Barangay San Nicolas.
The City Council has already authorized Mayor Michael Rama to sign a contract to sell and the deed of absolute sale with the Philippine Veterans Bank, owner of the 2,500-square meter property currently occupied by the members of Cabreros Interior Urban Poor Homeowners Association Inc.
The association is duly recognized and accredited by the City Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor.
The members of the association will be given the opportunity to own the lot they occupy through the city government’s socialized housing program.
The city will purchase the lot for P4.5 million or for P1,800 per square meter. Upon the execution of the contract, the city government will pay the bank an initial amount of P1.35 million or 30 percent of the selling price while the remaining P3.15 million shall be paid within six months without interest.
As per site evaluation of DWUP, the lot is conducive for living. Among others, the areas surrounding the site are inhabited and developed and the peace and order situation is stable.
In terms of facilities and utilities, the lot has a direct line to the local waterworks system and also has a deep well. Power lines connected to the Visayan Electric Cooperative are found within the property.
Passenger jeepneys are also plying in the area 24/7 while the barangay hall, maternity hospital, health center, public elementary and high schools, and commercial centers are accessible.— (FREEMAN)