article main image
Informal settlers in Dumaguete village warned of evictionBy PNA

Manila, Jan. 17 -- The chief of Looc village here has warned informal settlers of eviction from the government-owned land they are occupying if they would continue to defy safety and security policies.

Barangay chairman Angelita Ragay gave the warning following a fire that razed a number of houses in a densely-populated area of the coastal village.

At least 36 families initially validated by the City Social Welfare and Development Office and the Looc barangay captain were affected by the fire. They are staying at the barangay chapel or with relatives, and given relief and financial assistance by the city government.

In an interview Thursday afternoon, Ragay reiterated several issues, which she said have compromised the safety of the entire barangay, and not just the government property where informal settlers have built their houses on.

Ragay said owners of some houses do not follow the prescribed standard size of electric wires, while others build extensions to their homes without notifying the city government.

The paths leading to and out of these areas have become narrow, making it difficult for firefighters to enter the place during the blaze last Wednesday.

"I even had to re-direct two firetrucks elsewhere because of this," Ragay said in the Cebuano dialect.

No one was killed during the recent fire. In 2016, two people died in a fire in the area, she said.

Ragay said she will inspect the areas occupied by informal settlers as their homes pose a clear danger, being prone to fire.

She said these people are not paying attention to certain rules meant to ensure their safety and security.

"From now on, you will have to abide by what I say. I know that you will definitely return to building structures on that public land," she said.

She said she has a drainage project in the area, adding that she will have the road there widened so firetrucks can easily pass through in case another blaze breaks out.

"You very well know that I normally do not speak this way, but I am now angry with this. If you don't like my ways, get out of Barangay Looc," she told the informal settlers.