Relocation of dumpsite squatters recommended
Posted on February 10, 2003 - Filed Under News |
AT least 22 families currently squatting on the dumpsite area in Bonuan Boquig have been recommended for immediate relocation.
Solid Waste Management Board co-chairman Prof. Nicanor Melecio said he made the recommendation in preparation for the opening of the pilot Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in March. The construction of the first MRF is ongoing in the dumpsite while the latter is undergoing pre-closure operations.
Melecio, an environmentalist, said half of the four-hectare dumpsite had already been reclaimed and turned over to the Tondaligan Park Administration (TPA) and therfore, it is but proper to clear the area of squatters and other eyesores that may affect the beautification of the reclaimed area.
In his letter of recommendation, Melecio asked TPA administrator Juanito Lagao to coordinate witht eh concerned agencies of the city government regarding the relocation of the 22 affected families.
Among the agencies concerned include the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), City Health Office (CHO), City Task Force on Squatter Relocation and the Punong Barangay that has jurisdiction over the dumpsite.
Melecio's ecommendation also asked that the humanitarian concerns shoulf be addressed that affected families like possible employment and alternative livelihood and medical health care, aside from identifying an immediate site for their relocation.
In an initial report submitted to the City Mayor's Office (CMO) by CSWDO head Elsa Santillan, she disclosed that most of the families who have been squatting within the dumpsite area been living there for 17 to 20 years as they make money out of scavenging within the dumps. The affected families were also found to have anumber of dependents ranging from two to six.
Santillan also assessed that these families living at the open dumpsite are highly prone to health complications, particularly respiratory diseases.
She also recommended that the affected families be organized into a livelihood association.
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