3-month moratorium on demolition of structures in military reservations sought

Local legislators requested the chief executive to immediately issue a 3-month moratorium on the demolition of private structures constructed within military reservations and public lands in the city except illegal structures built within titled private properties.

Under Resolution No. 053, series of 2024, the council pointed out that the conduct of a study relative to the various issues regarding the said structures whether or not the same structures shall be demolished and the affected residents are entitled to the Pambansang Pabahay Program or relocation, thus, the need for a temporary suspension or deferment of demolitions.

Earlier, demolition orders and notices of violation were issued to residents who constructed or introduced improvements of their structures over military reservations, ancestral land claims and on private lands within the city.

The council tasked the city anti-illegal structures committee to conduct a stringent investigation on the history, location, status, as well as occupants of structures before there can be a recommendation for demolition.

Further, the City Social Welfare and Development Office, which is a member of the city anti-illegal structures committee, was tasked to identify if families or occupants of investigated structures are qualified for relocation or socialized housing.

Copies of the approved resolution will be transmitted to the concerned offices of the local government for their information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action. – Dexter A. See