BACOLOD City – The city government has reminded the chairs of 61 villages here of “consequences” should they fail to clear the streets in their areas of obstructions and illegal structures.
Mayor Evelio Leonardia said village chiefs should “impose their authority” in implementing the order to reclaim public roads being used for private purposes as mandated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
According to Leonardia, almost 70 percent of roads in the metro have been cleared of erring structures.
To ensure that village chiefs within their jurisdictions are cooperating, Leornadia issued a memorandum reminding local officials of the corresponding sanctions for those who will not comply with DILG’s directive.
“They will be held liable,” he stressed.
Leonardia vowed that his office will continue to monitor the performances of all barangays and validate the reports as mandated by the DILG.
He said that illegal structure owners were given until Sept. 27 to fully vacate their areas.
He also emphasized that village cooperation is crucial for the success of the road clearing program.
Meanwhile, the mayor said the sidewalk vendors in the downtown area affected by the demolition will be given P5,000 financial assistance ,from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Fund of the city.
But Leonardia clarified that the recipients for the financial aid will subject to validation./PN
