Mandaue’s relocation site too small for 3,961 settlers

CEBU, Philippines - The Mandaue City has about 3,961 informal settlers that have to be removed from danger zones and given shelter at a relocation site.

Mandaue’s relocation site in barangay Paknaan however has room for only 1,200 households.

City Administrator James Abadia said the city is still looking for ways to provide everybody a place to stay.

“We are studying several concepts on how to accommodate the informal settlers,” Abadia said.

He said the city is thinking of giving financial assistance and helping the settlers go back to their respective provinces.

Now that the barangay election is approaching, demolition of houses along the danger zones will stop.

“We are consistent in cleaning Mahiga Creek, para dili ma-clog up ug basin through cleaning dili muawas. For now this is our solution,” barangay captain Ernie  Manatad said.

He said, “Part sa among transportation sa barangay kay ang pagpanglimpyo kada adlaw ug ang residente didto among gi-awhag pud as part sa ilang responsibilidad isip lumulopyo didto.”

Mahiga Creek stretches for seven kilometers from Cebu City to Mandaue City and dredging it would cost the city P100 million, Manatad said.