Friday, March 27, 2015

Illegal structures in forest reserves set for demolition



254 Baguio houses identified; Baguio mayor orders probe
By Paul Rillorta

BAGUIO CITY – The city government is set to demolish illegal constructions like houses over forest reservations here like Animal Industry Forest Reservation. 

The mayor said the city will protect remaining watersheds and forest reservations within the city as part of its campaign against squatting. 

Reports of massive squatting within the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Industry resurfaced anew prompting the mayor to order an immediate investigation and action. 

“There are already initial reports that structures have resurfaced in the area without the required building permit. We would not allow this, we have no choice but to issue demolition orders for these structures,” he said. 

Domogan said a full investigation on this rampant construction along Marcos Highway is underway with full support of Tuba Mayor Florencio Bentres with parts of Tuba also affected. 

As per initial findings, there are 254 illegal constructions subject for demolition and could reach 400. 

Domogan said,” the actual number of illegal structures could not be determined yet but the bulk of which is situated within the Baguio side.” 

“We will determine the actual number when the investigation is done and the city government will spearhead the demolition of these structures after the issuance of the required notices of demolition orders to the identified owners,” he said. 

The City Legal Office, the City Building officials, the Public Order and Safety Division and the City Anti-Squatting Committee will conduct the necessary inventory of the structures built in the area without the required building permits. 

Ongoing construction will be subjected to demolition. 

The mayor also warned prospective buyers of lots in the area to verify first the status of the lots they intend to buy in order not to be victimized by fraudulent persons.   

“The Bureau of Animal Industry is a forest reservation and should remain protected,” Domogan said.

No comments:

Post a Comment