By Tarra Quismundo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:53:00 08/03/2008
THE MINUTE HE EXPERIENCED MAKING art with crayons on a clean sheet of paper, sixth-grader Rodel Candano started to dream about becoming an architect.
Though still in grade school at age 13, Mayka Rosaros learned she could aspire to be a doctor.
From their crowded regular classrooms, a select group of elementary school pupils from poor families has been chosen to take remedial instruction in a study center at the Baseco Compound in Manila. Here they learn to aim big with the help of two tutors who make up for what their regular schools lack.
Regarded as mentors more than tutors, Laarni Salanga and Ivy Espineli, graduates of the University of the Philippines, are providing a hands-on learning experience to a select group of Grade 5 and Grade 6 students in the port village.
Salanga and Espineli take turns teaching morning and afternoon tutorial sessions in English, Math and Science at the Edukasyong Kabalikat Para Sa Kaunlaran (EKK) learning center, a one-room facility established by Kabalikat, a Baseco people’s organization, and Urban Poor Associates, a nongovernment organization, with a P300,000 donation in 2003.
“Sometimes when we ask kids what they want to be, they say ‘I want to be a seaman, a porter, a vendor in Divisoria.’ They do not dream of bigger things. Nobody said ‘I want to be a doctor.’ But we tell them this is not all of the world. There’s a bigger world outside Baseco,” said the 25-year-old Espineli.
EKK’s thrice-weekly sessions (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) with 25 students per grade level are helping to bridge the learning gaps for low-performing students of Baseco’s public elementary schools.
“In school, they average 70 to 90 students per class, so only those in the front rows get to understand their lessons. If you’re in the back, you will be left behind. That’s what we notice. That’s why children lose enthusiasm for going to school,” said Salanga, 29, who finished English Studies at UP Diliman.
Tutoring pupils at the center has become a mission for Salanga and Espineli who have shunned better opportunities normally available to young people of their age and accomplishment.
Espineli, who majored in Social Science at UP Manila, started work at EKK three days after she graduated in April 2003.
Family obligations made Espineli, the third in a family of four children, take a three-year respite from EKK to take a teaching job in Thailand. She taught at an exclusive, all-girls school in southern Thailand and later became assistant director of the Thaksin University’s Institute for Foreign Languages.
“I had to go there to support my youngest sibling’s [nursing] studies. He graduated in March, that’s why I’m back. My obligation is over,” she said.
Salanga, who was looking for a part-time job to support her graduate studies, joined EKK the year that Espineli left. She said it was the kind of challenge she had long been looking for to escape a “boring” job at the family printing business in Caloocan.
“For an English Studies graduate like me, there are many opportunities. It’s easy for me to go but I do not feel like it. I feel like there’s no need for me to leave. And what’s good here is we get to express our creativity,” said Salanga.
They receive compensation that they regard as better than what other schools would pay, but they consider the experience of becoming more than a tutor to their students a far greater reward.
“We are able to provide individual attention and the child sees that the teacher is concerned. Once you get their trust, they will already share with you what’s happening in their homes, they will open up. They treat you as a friend,” said Espineli.
The center, which follows the regular school calendar, annually admits 25 of the poorest performers—or those with a grade average of 79 percent and below—in the last two grade levels whom they prepare to enter high school.
A token fee of P1 is charged for each session. The idea is for the students and the parents to have a “sense of ownership” of the program, said Espineli.
The job of selecting those that need help falls to the Baseco parents who identify barely passing elementary school pupils in the community and enroll them at EKK. Salanga and Espineli said they sometimes have to knock on doors to encourage participation.
The tutors hold three-hour sessions for each grade level, dividing the time among English, particularly reading and grammar, basic Math and Science. Fridays are reserved for art and music lessons which many of the kids enjoy the best.
And throughout the sessions, the pupils are taught to observe good manners.
Once, a student who came in 15 minutes late for a Friday afternoon session had to apologize to the group, to which a classmate replied in English: “Next time, come early.”
Encounters with Baseco kids have opened the tutors’ eyes to “realities” that are peculiar to the place.
In the port village, a former shantytown that had been dismantled many times before by fires and demolitions, sixth-graders often include students old enough for high school.
Finding the answer to 5 minus 4 is a stretch for fifth-graders, and graduating students struggle to read “run” or “fun.”
“You wonder whether there was a student who could read well,” said Salanga, adding that sessions at times had to go back to primary-level lessons.
Many also go to school with empty stomachs.
“You’d see that immediately in the child. You’d think he’s just not that smart but you realize that hunger is the reason why he performs poorly in school. It’s either they went to school without eating, or they were beaten by their parents,” said Salanga.
To enhance comprehension, the teachers would use the pupils’ experience to simplify the lesson.
“In addition or subtraction, we ask them how much will be left if you take P2 from P5. And most of them immediately understand because at times their parents make them hawk [items] in Divisoria,” Salanga said.
But what would prove to be useful in class was also a factor for pupils missing the sessions. The teachers note poor attendance in the months leading up to Christmas, traditionally the peak selling season for Divisoria.
“Sometimes, parents would rather that their kids sell plastic bags in Divisoria, at P5 for 100 pieces, than go to the center. Or they are made to sell vegetables, or take care of their siblings,” said Espineli.
To persuade the students to return, the tutors have to visit their homes and talk to the parents.
Despite the challenges, the young teachers are buoyed by the EKK’s successes.
Vanessa Vega, who was in the first batch of students at the center, graduated First Honorable Mention in 2004, after lagging behind in her class for a long time with 70-percent grades.
Roughly 90 percent of EKK “graduates” have also proceeded to high school, helping to cut the high elementary-to-high-school dropout rate among Baseco students.
The extracurricular activities at the EKK have helped to pull up Rodel Candano’s average by a point -- from 79 percent to 80 percent -- in the last school year.
“Here we get to draw, we sing and dance and go on field trips. We went to the Planetarium where I saw stars and Parks and Wildlife where we got to play in the open ground,” said Candano.
Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080803-152300/Teaching-kids-to-dream-beyond-Baseco
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Manila Inter-Agency Committee to meet over housing woes
** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE **
Manila Inter-Agency Committee to meet over housing woes
7 August 2008. Following the urban poor meeting with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the Metro Manila Inter-Agency Committee (MMIAC) is set to meet this afternoon (August 7) to discuss housing policies and programs for thousands of urban poor families.
Various government agencies are expected to attend the meeting at the Conference Room of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to decide for the fate of the revised executive order formalizing the creation of MMIAC and its directives. It will also tackle the list of 2,000 families for relocation to Montalban (Rodriguez, Rizal), inventory of other relocation sites and the biometrics registration of families in priority areas for relocation.
With the help of Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan of Tuguegarao and Bishop Ramon Villena of Bayombong, some leaders belonging to the Task Force Anti-Eviction met President Arroyo last August 1 in Malacañang to discuss the looming housing problems.
At the consultation meeting, President Arroyo instructed different agencies to realize her commitment to give shelter for thousands of urban poor families affected by evictions and demolitions.
The president directed the MMDA to prioritize the biometric system of profiling the urban poor families. MMDA will enjoin the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) in doing the biometric system of the following priority areas: Santolan (creek) and Sta. Lucia, Pasig City; Sito Masagana (Military Shrine), Taguig City; Balintawak (market), Tatalon and Cubao, Quezon City; R-10, Tondo, Manila; R-10 / Fishport, Navotas; and Quezon Bridge, Quiapo.
The affected families of these areas have been demolished but without provision of relocation, according to the Task Force Anti-Eviction, an urban poor group formed by 3 housing rights NGOs namely Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise, Community Organizers Multiversity and Urban Poor Associates (UPA). “Their structures have been demolished by MMDA or other government agencies and hence, these are families with pressing need of relocation.”
The group requested the president to transfer the affected families to Montalban. The subject property being requested is owned by the Home Guarantee Corporation (HGC). There are 5,345 homelots generated at the aforementioned property that have been idle for a long time. The group agreed with the president that the priorities for relocation are those families affected by the government infrastructure projects and those at the danger zones.
In a meeting hosted by the President last January 31, the government assured the urban poor group that demolitions would no longer be allowed unless there is a relocation site ready for affected families. President Arroyo instructed government agencies that there should be a social preparation period of 45 days for those who will be relocated. She agreed that in-city or near-city relocation sites should be considered a better option than distant relocation. Montalban, for example, which has been suggested by the poor as a relocation site, is willing to accept up to 100,000 urban poor families. An additional P4 billion pesos for socialized housing was also announced.
However, most of what have been promised did not materialize, according to Ted Añana, deputy coordinator of UPA. “Pagkatapos ng unang pulong sa presidente, kami’y nakipag-ugnayan sa mga ahensya ng pamahalaan upang maipatupad ang mga napagkasunduan. Masakit sabihin, sa aming pagtatasa halos lahat ng mga napagkasunduan ay hindi naganap.” Añana was recently appointed by the president as the permanent representative of urban poor sector in the MMIAC.
According to the eviction monitor done by UPA, for the past 6 months some 2,097 families have lost their homes due to demolitions. Out of the 2,097 families, only 741 families were relocated. Of the 15 cases recorded, 11 cases were done by MMDA. -30-
Manila Inter-Agency Committee to meet over housing woes
7 August 2008. Following the urban poor meeting with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the Metro Manila Inter-Agency Committee (MMIAC) is set to meet this afternoon (August 7) to discuss housing policies and programs for thousands of urban poor families.
Various government agencies are expected to attend the meeting at the Conference Room of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to decide for the fate of the revised executive order formalizing the creation of MMIAC and its directives. It will also tackle the list of 2,000 families for relocation to Montalban (Rodriguez, Rizal), inventory of other relocation sites and the biometrics registration of families in priority areas for relocation.
With the help of Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan of Tuguegarao and Bishop Ramon Villena of Bayombong, some leaders belonging to the Task Force Anti-Eviction met President Arroyo last August 1 in Malacañang to discuss the looming housing problems.
At the consultation meeting, President Arroyo instructed different agencies to realize her commitment to give shelter for thousands of urban poor families affected by evictions and demolitions.
The president directed the MMDA to prioritize the biometric system of profiling the urban poor families. MMDA will enjoin the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) in doing the biometric system of the following priority areas: Santolan (creek) and Sta. Lucia, Pasig City; Sito Masagana (Military Shrine), Taguig City; Balintawak (market), Tatalon and Cubao, Quezon City; R-10, Tondo, Manila; R-10 / Fishport, Navotas; and Quezon Bridge, Quiapo.
The affected families of these areas have been demolished but without provision of relocation, according to the Task Force Anti-Eviction, an urban poor group formed by 3 housing rights NGOs namely Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise, Community Organizers Multiversity and Urban Poor Associates (UPA). “Their structures have been demolished by MMDA or other government agencies and hence, these are families with pressing need of relocation.”
The group requested the president to transfer the affected families to Montalban. The subject property being requested is owned by the Home Guarantee Corporation (HGC). There are 5,345 homelots generated at the aforementioned property that have been idle for a long time. The group agreed with the president that the priorities for relocation are those families affected by the government infrastructure projects and those at the danger zones.
In a meeting hosted by the President last January 31, the government assured the urban poor group that demolitions would no longer be allowed unless there is a relocation site ready for affected families. President Arroyo instructed government agencies that there should be a social preparation period of 45 days for those who will be relocated. She agreed that in-city or near-city relocation sites should be considered a better option than distant relocation. Montalban, for example, which has been suggested by the poor as a relocation site, is willing to accept up to 100,000 urban poor families. An additional P4 billion pesos for socialized housing was also announced.
However, most of what have been promised did not materialize, according to Ted Añana, deputy coordinator of UPA. “Pagkatapos ng unang pulong sa presidente, kami’y nakipag-ugnayan sa mga ahensya ng pamahalaan upang maipatupad ang mga napagkasunduan. Masakit sabihin, sa aming pagtatasa halos lahat ng mga napagkasunduan ay hindi naganap.” Añana was recently appointed by the president as the permanent representative of urban poor sector in the MMIAC.
According to the eviction monitor done by UPA, for the past 6 months some 2,097 families have lost their homes due to demolitions. Out of the 2,097 families, only 741 families were relocated. Of the 15 cases recorded, 11 cases were done by MMDA. -30-
MMDA dismantles houses, shops in Quezon City
08/05/2008 | 06:50 PM
QTV: Violence mars MMDA clearing operations in Manila
08/06/2008 | 12:40 PM
MMDA clears Manila streets of vendors
08/06/2008 | 03:13 PM
MMDA, vendors clash in sidewalk-clearing operation
08/06/2008 | 06:40 PM
MMDA clearing operations in Manila marred by violence
08/07/2008 | 07:47 AM
QTV: Violence mars MMDA clearing operations in Manila
08/06/2008 | 12:40 PM
MMDA clears Manila streets of vendors
08/06/2008 | 03:13 PM
MMDA, vendors clash in sidewalk-clearing operation
08/06/2008 | 06:40 PM
MMDA clearing operations in Manila marred by violence
08/07/2008 | 07:47 AM
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS on REPUBLIC ACT 7279
After 15 years the Urban Development and Housing Act (RA 7279) has failed to provide for “a comprehensive and continuing urban development and housing program, establish the mechanism for its implementation, and for other purposes.” (From R.A. 7279 Title)
Thousands of families are literally evicted and left in the streets without relocation. Of the 2,781 families evicted this year in Metro Manila, excluding railroad evictions, only 9% received relocation. Relocation sites are usually far distant from places of work, and are poorly prepared. The Proclamation program of the President, while it set aside land for close to 200,000 families has failed to develop the sites and give titles to the families. There are also very few new proclamations. On the 10th anniversary of the laws enactment a panel of government, Church and civil society experts made an evaluation of the law’s implementation over the 10 years. They titled their report “A Good Law, But Terrible Implementation.” That is still an apt description. In an effort to improve implementation the following amendments are suggested.
1. PROVISION WHICH CATEGORICALLY PROVIDES FOR STRICT COMPLIANCE OF REQUIREMENTS SET IN SECTION 28, R.A. 7279 AND RELOCATION IN ALL CASES OF EVICTION.
The most debated, if not abused provision is Section 28, R. A. 7279 wherein it provides instances when eviction and demolition may be allowed:
a. when persons or entities occupy danger zones such as esteros, railroad tracks, garbage dumps, river banks, shorelines, waterways and other public places such as sidewalks, roads, parks and playgrounds;
b. when government projects with available funding are about to be implemented; and
c. when there is a court order for eviction or demolition.
This does not mean that evictions can be carried out immediately on the grounds that the urban poor are nuisances per se. The words should be qualified with the mandatory requirements provided in the same section, paragraph 2:
“In the execution of eviction or demolition orders involving under privileged and homeless citizens, the following shall be mandatory:
a. Notice upon affected persons and entities at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of eviction;
b. Adequate consultations on the matter of resettlement;
c. Presence of local government officials or their representative during the eviction;
d. Proper identification of the persons taking part in the demolition;
e. Conduct of demolition only during regular office hours from Mondays to Fridays unless the affected consent otherwise;
f. No use of heavy equipment for demolition except for permanent structures and concrete materials; and
g. Adequate relocation with basic services and access to employment sufficient to meet the basic needs of the families. If relocation is not possible within forty-five (45) days upon the serving of the final judgment by the court, the local government unit concerned is instructed to compensate the affected families an amount equivalent to the current minimum wage multiplied by sixty (60) days.”
Thus, evictions done prior to compliance with these requirements are illegal, especially if there is no existing relocation site for the affected urban poor families.
Section 29 thereof mandates the relocation of persons living in the so-called danger areas for two (2) years from the effectivity of the law. It provides that within the two (2) years from the effectivity of this Act, the local government units, in coordination with the National Housing Authority, shall implement the relocation and resettlement of persons living in danger areas such as esteros, railroad tracks, garbage dumps, riverbanks, shorelines, waterways, and in other public places such as sidewalks, roads, parks, and playgrounds. The local government units, in coordination with the National Housing Authority, shall provide relocation sites with basic services and facilities and access to employment and livelihood opportunities sufficient to meet the basic needs of the affected families”.
We believe the mandate to relocate the families in the three groups continues beyond two years since the national government and local government units have almost all failed to do the tasks assigned them in Art. IV, that is, inventories of lands and improvements thereon within their respective localities. They were also directed to identify sites for social housing and to further acquire land for social housing.
The Constitution states: “Urban or rural poor dwellers shall not be evicted nor their dwellings demolished, except in accordance with law and in a just and humane manner.” (Art. XIII, Section 10). There is no mention of cut-off dates.
The Philippines has signed international treaties and covenants that require all evicted families should be relocated. For example: “The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (UNCESCR), General Comment No. 7 (UNCESCR Document E/1998/22), Item No. 17 provides, “Evictions should not result in rendering individuals homeless or vulnerable to the violation of other human rights. Where those affected are unable to provide for themselves, the State party must take all appropriate measures, to the maximum of its available resources, to ensure that adequate alternative housing, resettlement or access to productive land, as the case may be, is available”.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Add a provision categorically providing that any demolition or eviction cannot be carried out if there is no already-existing concrete and adequate relocation site for the affected families.
2. STATES CATEGORICALLY THERE ARE NO SO CALLED “CUT-OFF DATES”; ALL EVICTED FAMILIES MUST BE INCLUDED IN RELOCATION PROGRAMS.
It is discriminatory to set cut-off dates for the application of R.A. 7279 to exclude those who came in after 1992 considering the growing increase of the urban poor population in urban areas. Moreover, lack of determination and registration of beneficiaries cannot be faulted to the urban poor. Secondly, it is discriminatory to say families who came after a census was made, provided it was not a very recent one, are not entitled to relocation.
As was said above, the law mandates for the registration of beneficiaries within one year from the effectivity of UDHA. Moreover, LGU’s are directed to identify and thereafter make inventories of available sites for socialized housing (Art. 29).
However, this had not been done and complied with. Failing to make the registration of beneficiaries or provide land for socialized housing should never be faulted to the urban poor.
Thus, survey or census to determine qualified beneficiaries should anew be conducted. Whenever census or survey is made, actual relocation should be effected within the year. Otherwise, a new survey or census is to be conducted to determine all qualified beneficiaries within the affected area.
So as not to defeat the purpose of the law, what should be followed is the minimum qualifications set out by UDHA under Section 16 for the beneficiary which are:
a. Must be a Filipino citizen;
b. Must be an underprivileged and homeless citizen;
c. Must not own any real property whether in the urban or rural areas; and
d. Must not be a professional squatter or a member of squatting syndicate.
Thus, as long as they complied with these qualifications, as a matter of right, they should be entitled to the benefits set out by law particularly to relocation. Otherwise, to set cut-off of dates, would be a violation against the equal protection clause.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Add a provision categorically eliminating the cut-off period to be eligible as beneficiary under R.A. 7279.
3. SCOPE OF CONSULTATION. THE CONSULTATION PROCESS GIVES BENEFICIARIES THE RIGHT TO DIALOG WITH GOVERNMENT OVER THE TERMS OF RELOCATION AND TO CHOOSE THEIR RELOCATION SITE IF ALTERNATIVES ARE AVAILABLE.
Prior consultation with the affected families as required by R.A. 7279 plays an important role but is almost totally disregarded by the government agencies. Consultation with the affected families before demolitions and evictions are made out to forestall economic dislocation, chaos, confusion and violence and to ensure that their relocation sites are provided with basic services.
As defined in Section 3(d), consultation refers to “the constitutionally mandated process whereby the public on their own or through people’s organizations, is provided an opportunity to be heard and to participate in the decision-making process on matters involving the protection and promotion of its legitimate collective interests, which shall include appropriate documentation and feedback mechanisms”.
The affected families should be heard. So as not to put at naught this constitutional mandate, the people should be given the opportunity to decide on the location of the relocation sites, to make an offer or counter-offer, and to have the same be heeded when reasonable and allowable.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide categorical provision defining the scope of the required consultation giving right to the affected families to look at the proposed site, propose others and choose the preferred site, among others.
4. DEFINING THE PENALTIES FOR ANY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL OR AGENCY THAT VIOLATES ANY PROVISION OF R.A. 7279, ESPECIALLY CARRYING OUT EVICTIONS/DEMOLITIONS IN THE ABSENCE OF ACTUAL RELOCATION SITES.
R.A. 7279, although it sets out penalties for professional squatters and a general penalty for anyone who violates provisions of the Act, it lacks a specific provision defining specific penalties for the government officials or agency/ies violating the procedures and requirements before carrying out evictions or demolitions. Carrying out evictions and demolitions in the absence of actual relocation sites for the affected families should be criminalized and the penalty thereon should be defined. In a way, this gives teeth to this Act.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making demolitions or evictions without actual relocation sites and non-compliance with the requirements set out under Section 28 (par.2) as a criminal act and providing penalties thereon at least equal to the penalties assigned to professional squatters.
5. MAKING IN-CITY OR NEAR-CITY RELOCATION MANDATORY.
One of the considerations in providing relocation sites is the livelihood component. Relocation sites should be near employment opportunities. Section 22 provides that, “To the extent feasible, socialized housing and resettlement projects shall be located near areas where employment opportunities are accessible. The government agencies dealing with the development of livelihood programs and grant of livelihood loans shall give priority to the beneficiaries of the Program”.
It is undeniable that relocatees have their source of livelihood in the area where they come from. There are far better chances of finding employment in cities than in distant areas. This is where the importance of near-city or in-city relocation comes in. Distant relocation causes the wage earners either to lose their jobs, since commuting is too expensive, or to live separate from their families. Further in distant relocation sites there are no part-time jobs for mothers and older children as there were in the city. Families relocated to distant sites suffer a decline in income since they now support two households—the wage earner(s) in the city and the mother and children in the relocation site. Also there is the lack of part time work for other family members. In many instances income drops by 25%. This results in poorer diets, health care and school expenses.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making in-city or near-city relocation as mandatory and defining what constitutes in-city or near-city relocation.
6. Land Proclamations. The president has the right to proclaim land for social housing through Executive Orders. It is the easiest way of converting government land to social housing purpose. In the years 2001-2004 President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued over 90 proclamations benefiting close to 200,000 families. It was seen as a good program for many reasons: (1) it benefited all residents in the proclaimed area including the poorest; (2) it didn’t cost the poor any money; (3) the proclamations, whatever their limitations, did stop nearly all evictions on proclaimed land; (4) the program was to lead to upgrading and actual subdivision and titling, in which process affordability would be a key factor since the exact work to be done or in any area would be democratically decided up on between government and people on LIAC or PIAC (Local Interagency Committee or Project Interagency Committee); (5) it was a program that could be replicated fairly easily.
However there have been two sets of problems: (1) the upgrading and titling work has not been done in nearly all proclaimed areas; (2) some proclamations have been amended or changed radically, leading people to ask, “What is the value of the proclamations (Baseco, Parola)?” The issuance of proclamations has practically stopped.
We therefore propose:
1. That the proclamation program be continued. President Macapagal-Arroyo at her 2001 State of the Nation Address said she would proclaim land for 150,000 families a year.
2. That time limit of one year be given for the upgrading and titling processes to get underway and one billion pesos be set aside annually for upgrading and titling proclaimed lands.
3. It should be stated land proclamations cannot be changed or annulled except in a legal process which allows the beneficiaries to present their arguments against change or annulment.
The legal value of the proclamations should be spelled out in the law.
7. R.A. 7279 SHOULD ALSO BE MADE APPLICABLE IN DEMOLITIONS OR EVICTIONS INVOLVING PRIVATE PROPERTY.
In cases where urban poor families occupied idle land and later on a private person claims to own the property, still, even if it was found out that indeed the property is private, the procedural guarantees laid down under R.A.7279 should be followed. Demolitions and/or evictions should not be carried out without existing adequate relocation site provided for the affected families.
The Constitution does not qualify the mandate to the government to continuously provide the basic right to shelter to the urban poor whether they are occupying a private or government land.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making the requisites set out in R.A. 7279 mandatorily applicable before demolition or eviction is carried out on private as well as public land.
Thousands of families are literally evicted and left in the streets without relocation. Of the 2,781 families evicted this year in Metro Manila, excluding railroad evictions, only 9% received relocation. Relocation sites are usually far distant from places of work, and are poorly prepared. The Proclamation program of the President, while it set aside land for close to 200,000 families has failed to develop the sites and give titles to the families. There are also very few new proclamations. On the 10th anniversary of the laws enactment a panel of government, Church and civil society experts made an evaluation of the law’s implementation over the 10 years. They titled their report “A Good Law, But Terrible Implementation.” That is still an apt description. In an effort to improve implementation the following amendments are suggested.
1. PROVISION WHICH CATEGORICALLY PROVIDES FOR STRICT COMPLIANCE OF REQUIREMENTS SET IN SECTION 28, R.A. 7279 AND RELOCATION IN ALL CASES OF EVICTION.
The most debated, if not abused provision is Section 28, R. A. 7279 wherein it provides instances when eviction and demolition may be allowed:
a. when persons or entities occupy danger zones such as esteros, railroad tracks, garbage dumps, river banks, shorelines, waterways and other public places such as sidewalks, roads, parks and playgrounds;
b. when government projects with available funding are about to be implemented; and
c. when there is a court order for eviction or demolition.
This does not mean that evictions can be carried out immediately on the grounds that the urban poor are nuisances per se. The words should be qualified with the mandatory requirements provided in the same section, paragraph 2:
“In the execution of eviction or demolition orders involving under privileged and homeless citizens, the following shall be mandatory:
a. Notice upon affected persons and entities at least thirty (30) days prior to the date of eviction;
b. Adequate consultations on the matter of resettlement;
c. Presence of local government officials or their representative during the eviction;
d. Proper identification of the persons taking part in the demolition;
e. Conduct of demolition only during regular office hours from Mondays to Fridays unless the affected consent otherwise;
f. No use of heavy equipment for demolition except for permanent structures and concrete materials; and
g. Adequate relocation with basic services and access to employment sufficient to meet the basic needs of the families. If relocation is not possible within forty-five (45) days upon the serving of the final judgment by the court, the local government unit concerned is instructed to compensate the affected families an amount equivalent to the current minimum wage multiplied by sixty (60) days.”
Thus, evictions done prior to compliance with these requirements are illegal, especially if there is no existing relocation site for the affected urban poor families.
Section 29 thereof mandates the relocation of persons living in the so-called danger areas for two (2) years from the effectivity of the law. It provides that within the two (2) years from the effectivity of this Act, the local government units, in coordination with the National Housing Authority, shall implement the relocation and resettlement of persons living in danger areas such as esteros, railroad tracks, garbage dumps, riverbanks, shorelines, waterways, and in other public places such as sidewalks, roads, parks, and playgrounds. The local government units, in coordination with the National Housing Authority, shall provide relocation sites with basic services and facilities and access to employment and livelihood opportunities sufficient to meet the basic needs of the affected families”.
We believe the mandate to relocate the families in the three groups continues beyond two years since the national government and local government units have almost all failed to do the tasks assigned them in Art. IV, that is, inventories of lands and improvements thereon within their respective localities. They were also directed to identify sites for social housing and to further acquire land for social housing.
The Constitution states: “Urban or rural poor dwellers shall not be evicted nor their dwellings demolished, except in accordance with law and in a just and humane manner.” (Art. XIII, Section 10). There is no mention of cut-off dates.
The Philippines has signed international treaties and covenants that require all evicted families should be relocated. For example: “The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (UNCESCR), General Comment No. 7 (UNCESCR Document E/1998/22), Item No. 17 provides, “Evictions should not result in rendering individuals homeless or vulnerable to the violation of other human rights. Where those affected are unable to provide for themselves, the State party must take all appropriate measures, to the maximum of its available resources, to ensure that adequate alternative housing, resettlement or access to productive land, as the case may be, is available”.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Add a provision categorically providing that any demolition or eviction cannot be carried out if there is no already-existing concrete and adequate relocation site for the affected families.
2. STATES CATEGORICALLY THERE ARE NO SO CALLED “CUT-OFF DATES”; ALL EVICTED FAMILIES MUST BE INCLUDED IN RELOCATION PROGRAMS.
It is discriminatory to set cut-off dates for the application of R.A. 7279 to exclude those who came in after 1992 considering the growing increase of the urban poor population in urban areas. Moreover, lack of determination and registration of beneficiaries cannot be faulted to the urban poor. Secondly, it is discriminatory to say families who came after a census was made, provided it was not a very recent one, are not entitled to relocation.
As was said above, the law mandates for the registration of beneficiaries within one year from the effectivity of UDHA. Moreover, LGU’s are directed to identify and thereafter make inventories of available sites for socialized housing (Art. 29).
However, this had not been done and complied with. Failing to make the registration of beneficiaries or provide land for socialized housing should never be faulted to the urban poor.
Thus, survey or census to determine qualified beneficiaries should anew be conducted. Whenever census or survey is made, actual relocation should be effected within the year. Otherwise, a new survey or census is to be conducted to determine all qualified beneficiaries within the affected area.
So as not to defeat the purpose of the law, what should be followed is the minimum qualifications set out by UDHA under Section 16 for the beneficiary which are:
a. Must be a Filipino citizen;
b. Must be an underprivileged and homeless citizen;
c. Must not own any real property whether in the urban or rural areas; and
d. Must not be a professional squatter or a member of squatting syndicate.
Thus, as long as they complied with these qualifications, as a matter of right, they should be entitled to the benefits set out by law particularly to relocation. Otherwise, to set cut-off of dates, would be a violation against the equal protection clause.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Add a provision categorically eliminating the cut-off period to be eligible as beneficiary under R.A. 7279.
3. SCOPE OF CONSULTATION. THE CONSULTATION PROCESS GIVES BENEFICIARIES THE RIGHT TO DIALOG WITH GOVERNMENT OVER THE TERMS OF RELOCATION AND TO CHOOSE THEIR RELOCATION SITE IF ALTERNATIVES ARE AVAILABLE.
Prior consultation with the affected families as required by R.A. 7279 plays an important role but is almost totally disregarded by the government agencies. Consultation with the affected families before demolitions and evictions are made out to forestall economic dislocation, chaos, confusion and violence and to ensure that their relocation sites are provided with basic services.
As defined in Section 3(d), consultation refers to “the constitutionally mandated process whereby the public on their own or through people’s organizations, is provided an opportunity to be heard and to participate in the decision-making process on matters involving the protection and promotion of its legitimate collective interests, which shall include appropriate documentation and feedback mechanisms”.
The affected families should be heard. So as not to put at naught this constitutional mandate, the people should be given the opportunity to decide on the location of the relocation sites, to make an offer or counter-offer, and to have the same be heeded when reasonable and allowable.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide categorical provision defining the scope of the required consultation giving right to the affected families to look at the proposed site, propose others and choose the preferred site, among others.
4. DEFINING THE PENALTIES FOR ANY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL OR AGENCY THAT VIOLATES ANY PROVISION OF R.A. 7279, ESPECIALLY CARRYING OUT EVICTIONS/DEMOLITIONS IN THE ABSENCE OF ACTUAL RELOCATION SITES.
R.A. 7279, although it sets out penalties for professional squatters and a general penalty for anyone who violates provisions of the Act, it lacks a specific provision defining specific penalties for the government officials or agency/ies violating the procedures and requirements before carrying out evictions or demolitions. Carrying out evictions and demolitions in the absence of actual relocation sites for the affected families should be criminalized and the penalty thereon should be defined. In a way, this gives teeth to this Act.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making demolitions or evictions without actual relocation sites and non-compliance with the requirements set out under Section 28 (par.2) as a criminal act and providing penalties thereon at least equal to the penalties assigned to professional squatters.
5. MAKING IN-CITY OR NEAR-CITY RELOCATION MANDATORY.
One of the considerations in providing relocation sites is the livelihood component. Relocation sites should be near employment opportunities. Section 22 provides that, “To the extent feasible, socialized housing and resettlement projects shall be located near areas where employment opportunities are accessible. The government agencies dealing with the development of livelihood programs and grant of livelihood loans shall give priority to the beneficiaries of the Program”.
It is undeniable that relocatees have their source of livelihood in the area where they come from. There are far better chances of finding employment in cities than in distant areas. This is where the importance of near-city or in-city relocation comes in. Distant relocation causes the wage earners either to lose their jobs, since commuting is too expensive, or to live separate from their families. Further in distant relocation sites there are no part-time jobs for mothers and older children as there were in the city. Families relocated to distant sites suffer a decline in income since they now support two households—the wage earner(s) in the city and the mother and children in the relocation site. Also there is the lack of part time work for other family members. In many instances income drops by 25%. This results in poorer diets, health care and school expenses.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making in-city or near-city relocation as mandatory and defining what constitutes in-city or near-city relocation.
6. Land Proclamations. The president has the right to proclaim land for social housing through Executive Orders. It is the easiest way of converting government land to social housing purpose. In the years 2001-2004 President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo issued over 90 proclamations benefiting close to 200,000 families. It was seen as a good program for many reasons: (1) it benefited all residents in the proclaimed area including the poorest; (2) it didn’t cost the poor any money; (3) the proclamations, whatever their limitations, did stop nearly all evictions on proclaimed land; (4) the program was to lead to upgrading and actual subdivision and titling, in which process affordability would be a key factor since the exact work to be done or in any area would be democratically decided up on between government and people on LIAC or PIAC (Local Interagency Committee or Project Interagency Committee); (5) it was a program that could be replicated fairly easily.
However there have been two sets of problems: (1) the upgrading and titling work has not been done in nearly all proclaimed areas; (2) some proclamations have been amended or changed radically, leading people to ask, “What is the value of the proclamations (Baseco, Parola)?” The issuance of proclamations has practically stopped.
We therefore propose:
1. That the proclamation program be continued. President Macapagal-Arroyo at her 2001 State of the Nation Address said she would proclaim land for 150,000 families a year.
2. That time limit of one year be given for the upgrading and titling processes to get underway and one billion pesos be set aside annually for upgrading and titling proclaimed lands.
3. It should be stated land proclamations cannot be changed or annulled except in a legal process which allows the beneficiaries to present their arguments against change or annulment.
The legal value of the proclamations should be spelled out in the law.
7. R.A. 7279 SHOULD ALSO BE MADE APPLICABLE IN DEMOLITIONS OR EVICTIONS INVOLVING PRIVATE PROPERTY.
In cases where urban poor families occupied idle land and later on a private person claims to own the property, still, even if it was found out that indeed the property is private, the procedural guarantees laid down under R.A.7279 should be followed. Demolitions and/or evictions should not be carried out without existing adequate relocation site provided for the affected families.
The Constitution does not qualify the mandate to the government to continuously provide the basic right to shelter to the urban poor whether they are occupying a private or government land.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Provide specific provision making the requisites set out in R.A. 7279 mandatorily applicable before demolition or eviction is carried out on private as well as public land.
Friday, August 01, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY: Human Rights and Access to Justice for the Poor
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
Human Rights and Access to Justice for the Poor
It is our distinct honor to invite you to attend a special seminar entitled, “Amending UDHA: Human Rights and Access to Justice for the Poor.” Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Leila de Lima, Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino, Supreme Court Spokesman Jose Midas Marquez and Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo will be the main speakers.
The seminar will be held August 4, 2008 (Monday) at the Audio Visual Room, Social Development Complex of the Ateneo de Manila University. It will begin at 9:00AM and end at 1:00PM. A modest lunch will follow.
The seminar brings together initiatives that promise improvement in the manner in which urban poor people are treated, especially in matters of evictions and relocation. Senator Aquino as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Government has already begun hearings on amending UDHA.
Chairperson de Lima took up the issues of evictions and relocation with a special emphasis on the human rights of the people involved in such activities contained in the country’s Constitution and laws and the International Covenants the country has signed.
The seminar is also our effort to follow through the highly successful "Forum on Increasing Access to Justice: Bridging Gaps and Removing Roadblocks" which the Supreme Court Chief Justice has initiated.
Naga City has been awarded the 2007 Housing Rights Protector Award for its Kaantabay sa Kauswagan Programme, an initiative providing security of tenure and improved living conditions for thousands of its residents.
After the speakers make their opening statements, urban poor people will have a chance to tell stories of how they have suffered in recent evictions, for example, the absence of consultation, legal notice and relocation. Government agencies will have time to make their comments on what has been said by the speakers and the poor. Then there will be an open forum.
At the end, the speakers will share their final thoughts on the subjects discussed. There will be a large poster-size statement of purpose that the participants will be asked to sign.
Date: August 4, 2008 (Monday) / 9:00AM - 1:00PM
Venue: Audio Visual Room, Social Development Complex, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City
MEDIA ADVISORY
Human Rights and Access to Justice for the Poor
It is our distinct honor to invite you to attend a special seminar entitled, “Amending UDHA: Human Rights and Access to Justice for the Poor.” Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Leila de Lima, Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino, Supreme Court Spokesman Jose Midas Marquez and Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo will be the main speakers.
The seminar will be held August 4, 2008 (Monday) at the Audio Visual Room, Social Development Complex of the Ateneo de Manila University. It will begin at 9:00AM and end at 1:00PM. A modest lunch will follow.
The seminar brings together initiatives that promise improvement in the manner in which urban poor people are treated, especially in matters of evictions and relocation. Senator Aquino as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Government has already begun hearings on amending UDHA.
Chairperson de Lima took up the issues of evictions and relocation with a special emphasis on the human rights of the people involved in such activities contained in the country’s Constitution and laws and the International Covenants the country has signed.
The seminar is also our effort to follow through the highly successful "Forum on Increasing Access to Justice: Bridging Gaps and Removing Roadblocks" which the Supreme Court Chief Justice has initiated.
Naga City has been awarded the 2007 Housing Rights Protector Award for its Kaantabay sa Kauswagan Programme, an initiative providing security of tenure and improved living conditions for thousands of its residents.
After the speakers make their opening statements, urban poor people will have a chance to tell stories of how they have suffered in recent evictions, for example, the absence of consultation, legal notice and relocation. Government agencies will have time to make their comments on what has been said by the speakers and the poor. Then there will be an open forum.
At the end, the speakers will share their final thoughts on the subjects discussed. There will be a large poster-size statement of purpose that the participants will be asked to sign.
Date: August 4, 2008 (Monday) / 9:00AM - 1:00PM
Venue: Audio Visual Room, Social Development Complex, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Bishops, Urban Poor Groups To Discuss Housing Rescue Plan with PGMA
** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE **
Bishops, Urban Poor Groups To Discuss Housing Rescue Plan with PGMA
31 July 2008. With the help of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, urban poor groups will meet President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo tomorrow (August 1) in Malacañang to discuss the looming housing problems in Metro Manila.
Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan of Tuguegarao, Bishop Ramon Villena of Bayombong and some leaders belonging to the Task Force Anti-Eviction will meet President Arroyo for the second time this year to tackle a housing rescue plan that will help thousands of urban poor families.
Task Force Anti-Eviction is composed of people’s organizations such as Market 3 Fishport of Navotas Neighborhood Association, Samahang Pinagbuklod ng Pagkakaisa, Samahang taga-Estero sa Pasay, Bacood Ilaya Looban Homeowners Association, Pinagbuklod – Ugnayang Lakas ng mga Apektadong Pamilya sa Baybaying Ilog Pasig, Samahang Magkakapitbahay ng Valderrama, Samahan ng mga Pamilyang Apektado sa Riles, Kabalikat sa Pagpapaunlad ng Baseco, and non-government organizations namely Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise, Community Organizers Multiversity and Urban Poor Associates (UPA).
The group wants a halt to forced evictions without relocation and the preparation of adequate relocation sites for those who are evicted.
In a meeting hosted by the President January 31, the government assured urban poor communities that demolitions would no longer be allowed unless there is a relocation site ready for affected families. President Arroyo instructed government agencies that there should be a social preparation period of 45 days for those who will be relocated. She agreed that in-city or near-city relocation sites should be considered a better option than distant relocation. Montalban, for example, which has been suggested by the poor as a relocation site, is willing to accept up to 100,000 urban poor families. An additional P4 billion pesos for socialized housing was also announced.
However, most of what have been promised never materialize, the group said in a letter to the President. “Pagkatapos ng pulong noong ika 31 ng Enero 2008, kami’y nakipag-ugnayan sa mga ahensya ng pamahalaan tulad ng NHA, MMDA, HUDCC, PCUP, DA/PFDA upang maipatupad ang mga napagkasunduan. Masakit pong sabihin, sa aming pagtatasa halos lahat ng mga nabanggit sa itaas ay hindi po naganap.”
According to the eviction monitor done by UPA, for the past 6 months some 2,097 families have lost their homes due to demolitions. Out of the 2,097 families, only 741 families were relocated.
For the security of tenure of some 200,000 families in proclaimed areas, the president must also order for the Post-Proclamation Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), the group said.
To ensure a low-cost housing, the group suggested that the government must adopt a method introduced by Gawad Kalinga and Habitat for Humanity – sweat equity or bayanihan. A tripartite body composed of government agencies, people’s organizations and parish-based groups will help implement the project. -30-
Bishops, Urban Poor Groups To Discuss Housing Rescue Plan with PGMA
31 July 2008. With the help of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, urban poor groups will meet President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo tomorrow (August 1) in Malacañang to discuss the looming housing problems in Metro Manila.
Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan of Tuguegarao, Bishop Ramon Villena of Bayombong and some leaders belonging to the Task Force Anti-Eviction will meet President Arroyo for the second time this year to tackle a housing rescue plan that will help thousands of urban poor families.
Task Force Anti-Eviction is composed of people’s organizations such as Market 3 Fishport of Navotas Neighborhood Association, Samahang Pinagbuklod ng Pagkakaisa, Samahang taga-Estero sa Pasay, Bacood Ilaya Looban Homeowners Association, Pinagbuklod – Ugnayang Lakas ng mga Apektadong Pamilya sa Baybaying Ilog Pasig, Samahang Magkakapitbahay ng Valderrama, Samahan ng mga Pamilyang Apektado sa Riles, Kabalikat sa Pagpapaunlad ng Baseco, and non-government organizations namely Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise, Community Organizers Multiversity and Urban Poor Associates (UPA).
The group wants a halt to forced evictions without relocation and the preparation of adequate relocation sites for those who are evicted.
In a meeting hosted by the President January 31, the government assured urban poor communities that demolitions would no longer be allowed unless there is a relocation site ready for affected families. President Arroyo instructed government agencies that there should be a social preparation period of 45 days for those who will be relocated. She agreed that in-city or near-city relocation sites should be considered a better option than distant relocation. Montalban, for example, which has been suggested by the poor as a relocation site, is willing to accept up to 100,000 urban poor families. An additional P4 billion pesos for socialized housing was also announced.
However, most of what have been promised never materialize, the group said in a letter to the President. “Pagkatapos ng pulong noong ika 31 ng Enero 2008, kami’y nakipag-ugnayan sa mga ahensya ng pamahalaan tulad ng NHA, MMDA, HUDCC, PCUP, DA/PFDA upang maipatupad ang mga napagkasunduan. Masakit pong sabihin, sa aming pagtatasa halos lahat ng mga nabanggit sa itaas ay hindi po naganap.”
According to the eviction monitor done by UPA, for the past 6 months some 2,097 families have lost their homes due to demolitions. Out of the 2,097 families, only 741 families were relocated.
For the security of tenure of some 200,000 families in proclaimed areas, the president must also order for the Post-Proclamation Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), the group said.
To ensure a low-cost housing, the group suggested that the government must adopt a method introduced by Gawad Kalinga and Habitat for Humanity – sweat equity or bayanihan. A tripartite body composed of government agencies, people’s organizations and parish-based groups will help implement the project. -30-
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Baseco worries
29 July 2008. Some 6,000-10,000 poor families have been living in Baseco since 2001. Baseco is 56 hectares in extent. As late as 2001 most of the 56 hectares was underwater. Since 2002 the land has been gradually reclaimed.
In February 2002 President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo proclaimed the area, all 56 hectares for the homes of the people. That same year the first of four major fires hit the area which initiated the reclamation of land. Some five hectares were reclaimed and divided into lots which were assigned to about 1,000 families.
In 2004, PGMA introduced Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH). They have built together nearly 2,000 row houses since then. The people like the housing. Most families wish for a similar type house. A soil test was made that found much of Baseco would be at risk if there were a very strong (8 on the Richter scale) earthquake. The soil might turn to mud, it is said.
In 2007, the 2004 soil test was resurrected to show that building even one storey houses in Baseco because of the poor soil was not a good idea. Mayor Alfredo Lim asked Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH) to stop building.
The Philippine Reclamation Authority announced it would reclaim another 10 hectares of land just west of Baseco. At first PRA said it knew nothing about the future of the 56 hectares.
After the people had more meetings with PRA, a visit (May 14) from PGMA and a meeting with the National Housing Authority, the following seems to be the government’s plan:
· Government will reclaim the 10 hectares as proposed, an island just off the 56 hectares.
· It will move families there from the 56 hectares. It plans on housing 3,000 families on the 10 hectares. There will also be a mini-fish port there, PGMA said on her visit.
· The government will then develop 35 hectares of the 56 hectares proclaimed for commercial purpose.
The residents are afraid of this plan for the following reason:
1) No clear black and white detailed description of the plan has yet been shown to the people.
2) There are at least 6,000 families in Baseco and maybe as many as 10,000.
· There are plans for 3,000. What will happen to all the other families?
· It is not clear who the beneficiaries are. Will it be only families censused in 2001? What of the other hundreds, maybe thousands of families living there now?
· Will the 3,000 units be affordable? A survey made by the Institute of Philippine Culture of the Ateneo de Manila found the average family income per month to be between P6,000 to P7,000 in 2002. It is not much higher now. At most, the people can afford P150 per month, they say.
· Will the 2,000 houses of GK and HfH remain or will they be removed?
· Who is the main stakeholder in this huge venture? Where will financing come from?
· Does the fact that the land is proclaimed limit what uses can be made of it? If it was proclaimed for homes, can it be used for commerce?
3) What People Want: The people of Baseco want a house like those built by GK and HfH. These houses encourage the formation of peaceful, neighborly communities. They like some open space for the children’s play, churches, day care centers, clinics and job training institutions. The people want to build working family communities with basic services, playgrounds, lawns and flowers, where old people can sit in front of their houses and watch the children play, where people engage actively in public affairs and politics. -30-
In February 2002 President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo proclaimed the area, all 56 hectares for the homes of the people. That same year the first of four major fires hit the area which initiated the reclamation of land. Some five hectares were reclaimed and divided into lots which were assigned to about 1,000 families.
In 2004, PGMA introduced Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH). They have built together nearly 2,000 row houses since then. The people like the housing. Most families wish for a similar type house. A soil test was made that found much of Baseco would be at risk if there were a very strong (8 on the Richter scale) earthquake. The soil might turn to mud, it is said.
In 2007, the 2004 soil test was resurrected to show that building even one storey houses in Baseco because of the poor soil was not a good idea. Mayor Alfredo Lim asked Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH) to stop building.
The Philippine Reclamation Authority announced it would reclaim another 10 hectares of land just west of Baseco. At first PRA said it knew nothing about the future of the 56 hectares.
After the people had more meetings with PRA, a visit (May 14) from PGMA and a meeting with the National Housing Authority, the following seems to be the government’s plan:
· Government will reclaim the 10 hectares as proposed, an island just off the 56 hectares.
· It will move families there from the 56 hectares. It plans on housing 3,000 families on the 10 hectares. There will also be a mini-fish port there, PGMA said on her visit.
· The government will then develop 35 hectares of the 56 hectares proclaimed for commercial purpose.
The residents are afraid of this plan for the following reason:
1) No clear black and white detailed description of the plan has yet been shown to the people.
2) There are at least 6,000 families in Baseco and maybe as many as 10,000.
· There are plans for 3,000. What will happen to all the other families?
· It is not clear who the beneficiaries are. Will it be only families censused in 2001? What of the other hundreds, maybe thousands of families living there now?
· Will the 3,000 units be affordable? A survey made by the Institute of Philippine Culture of the Ateneo de Manila found the average family income per month to be between P6,000 to P7,000 in 2002. It is not much higher now. At most, the people can afford P150 per month, they say.
· Will the 2,000 houses of GK and HfH remain or will they be removed?
· Who is the main stakeholder in this huge venture? Where will financing come from?
· Does the fact that the land is proclaimed limit what uses can be made of it? If it was proclaimed for homes, can it be used for commerce?
3) What People Want: The people of Baseco want a house like those built by GK and HfH. These houses encourage the formation of peaceful, neighborly communities. They like some open space for the children’s play, churches, day care centers, clinics and job training institutions. The people want to build working family communities with basic services, playgrounds, lawns and flowers, where old people can sit in front of their houses and watch the children play, where people engage actively in public affairs and politics. -30-
Monday, July 28, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY: Running Priest in Baseco for U.N. Run
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
Running Priest in Baseco for U.N. Run
Fr. Robert Reyes, the running priest, will stage a run in Baseco, Port Area in Manila tomorrow (Tuesday) morning 10:00 AM starting at the Herminigildo Atienza Elementary School to publicise a petition which the people will send to the United Nations (UN). The petition will concern the eviction of 7,000 to 10,000 families living in Baseco.
The land was proclaimed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2002. On the basis of that proclamation, aided by the Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH), the people invested in their homes. But now they are told to vacate the 56 hectares because the reclamation done by the government between 2002 and 2004 was poorly done. With the result, the land will liquify if there is a strong earthquake, the government says.
It is estimated well over a hundred million pesos was spent for the reclamation, according to Urban Poor Associates (UPA), a housing rights NGO.
After the run, there will be a brief prayer service. The people of Baseco will also sign a banner with the words “United Nations Housing Rights, please help us. We want to stay here in our homes. We don’t want to move out.”
Date: July 29, 2008 (Tuesday)
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Baseco, Port Area, Manila
MEDIA ADVISORY
Running Priest in Baseco for U.N. Run
Fr. Robert Reyes, the running priest, will stage a run in Baseco, Port Area in Manila tomorrow (Tuesday) morning 10:00 AM starting at the Herminigildo Atienza Elementary School to publicise a petition which the people will send to the United Nations (UN). The petition will concern the eviction of 7,000 to 10,000 families living in Baseco.
The land was proclaimed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in 2002. On the basis of that proclamation, aided by the Gawad Kalinga (GK) and Habitat for Humanity (HfH), the people invested in their homes. But now they are told to vacate the 56 hectares because the reclamation done by the government between 2002 and 2004 was poorly done. With the result, the land will liquify if there is a strong earthquake, the government says.
It is estimated well over a hundred million pesos was spent for the reclamation, according to Urban Poor Associates (UPA), a housing rights NGO.
After the run, there will be a brief prayer service. The people of Baseco will also sign a banner with the words “United Nations Housing Rights, please help us. We want to stay here in our homes. We don’t want to move out.”
Date: July 29, 2008 (Tuesday)
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Baseco, Port Area, Manila
Monday, July 21, 2008
If the bishops wrote to the poor
Commentary : If the bishops wrote to the poor
By Denis Murphy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: July 21, 2008
MANILA, Philippines - There has been a long debate in the church over its social teaching, not so much with the content, the “what” of the teaching, but about the most effective way to get it implemented, the “how” of the matter.
It is a matter of audiences. Ordinarily the papal encyclicals and the letters of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines address the government and influential private citizens, asking them to protect workers’ rights, implement land reform or extend it, stop illegal forced evictions, ban trawlers from offshore waters and take care of other problems. This approach sees the elite as the agents of change.
Another audience for the letters and encyclicals might be the workers, farmers, urban poor and fishermen of the world and the Philippines. The hierarchy might explain the Church’s teaching as it relates to the poor sectors, explain their human rights and urge them to take organized action to achieve their rights and reform the situation. This approach is far rarer than the first, though some popes, including Pope John Paul II, had encouraged workers to act through their unions. Think of Poland’s Solidarity, for example. This approach sees the poor as the agents of change. In the end it’s a matter of emphasis: both government and the organized poor are needed.
It wouldn’t be surprising if some of our bishops began to wonder if it is useful any longer to keep appealing to Philippine government leaders and the powerful to take up reform. The bishops over the years have given more support to land reform than any other social problem, and yet they can’t even get a very ordinary law extended. The Philippines is the first democracy to drop its land reform program before it is finished.
Maybe, the bishops will soon come to believe it is more useful to talk directly to the poor than to continue engaging with officials who politely nod in agreement with the Church’s suggestions and then continue with business as usual. In the concrete situation existing in the country with the officials and growing problems the people face, it seems the right time to speak to the poor.
If they ever write such a letter it might go like this:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Our past letters on social problems don’t seem to have done much good. Many times, for example, we appealed to our leaders for effective land reform, but to no avail. Congress failed to extend it. We’ve talked of workers’ problems, mining and the problems tribal people face, but those letters, too, have had little effect. It’s time to talk directly to you.
Before going further, we wish to ask about something that puzzles us and many other people, namely, why are you so patient? There are food and oil price riots in many countries; in South Korea 50,000 people go into the streets each night to protest the importation of American beef, yet here in the Philippines, which is as poor and as hard hit as any other country by the soaring prices, there seems to be only passive acceptance. This is not our history. Look at the peasant uprisings of the past, look at Edsa I. What has caused this recent passivity?
Have you lost hope in life and the possibility of change? Have you lost faith in government, the elite, the Church? We can imagine your pain with the way things have become worse and worse, but don’t give up for the sake of your children and for the good of the whole country.
What is your perception of the Church? Do you feel it is on your side in the justice struggles that will fashion the Philippines of tomorrow? Do you feel you are in the Church of the Poor that we vowed to become at the Second Plenary Council in 1991? We hope so and we sincerely hope you haven’t lost your willingness to “hunger and thirst for justice.” You well know that no major social change will come about in our country without organized popular pressure from below. Also, no serious thrust to become the Church of the Poor will take place unless you push us in that direction.
What will it take to organize this popular pressure from below? To organize farmers into a large democratic, non-violent movement for a truly valuable land reform, for example. How many farmers must be organized? One million? Why not? The Federation of Free Farmers on the eve of the declaration of martial law had some 300,000 members and was growing rapidly. There are many more farmers now and just as much suffering.
We ask the same question of all downtrodden groups—tribal people, fishermen, workers, urban poor, farmers: What will it take to organize yourselves?
We will give whatever is in our power to give in terms of moral support, funds and training resources. We will recruit idealistic young people and professionals to work alongside you. We will lobby for you as we always have, and we will not hesitate to break with the powerful who resist your efforts to secure your human rights. We will preach the Gospel in the liberating way Jesus did in Luke 4:18-19: “The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to free the oppressed and to proclaim the Lord’s year of mercy.”
May the Lord bless all of us.
Denis Murphy works with Urban Poor Associates. His email address is upa@pldtdsl.net.
©Copyright 2001-2008 INQUIRER.net, An Inquirer Company
By Denis Murphy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: July 21, 2008
MANILA, Philippines - There has been a long debate in the church over its social teaching, not so much with the content, the “what” of the teaching, but about the most effective way to get it implemented, the “how” of the matter.
It is a matter of audiences. Ordinarily the papal encyclicals and the letters of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines address the government and influential private citizens, asking them to protect workers’ rights, implement land reform or extend it, stop illegal forced evictions, ban trawlers from offshore waters and take care of other problems. This approach sees the elite as the agents of change.
Another audience for the letters and encyclicals might be the workers, farmers, urban poor and fishermen of the world and the Philippines. The hierarchy might explain the Church’s teaching as it relates to the poor sectors, explain their human rights and urge them to take organized action to achieve their rights and reform the situation. This approach is far rarer than the first, though some popes, including Pope John Paul II, had encouraged workers to act through their unions. Think of Poland’s Solidarity, for example. This approach sees the poor as the agents of change. In the end it’s a matter of emphasis: both government and the organized poor are needed.
It wouldn’t be surprising if some of our bishops began to wonder if it is useful any longer to keep appealing to Philippine government leaders and the powerful to take up reform. The bishops over the years have given more support to land reform than any other social problem, and yet they can’t even get a very ordinary law extended. The Philippines is the first democracy to drop its land reform program before it is finished.
Maybe, the bishops will soon come to believe it is more useful to talk directly to the poor than to continue engaging with officials who politely nod in agreement with the Church’s suggestions and then continue with business as usual. In the concrete situation existing in the country with the officials and growing problems the people face, it seems the right time to speak to the poor.
If they ever write such a letter it might go like this:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Our past letters on social problems don’t seem to have done much good. Many times, for example, we appealed to our leaders for effective land reform, but to no avail. Congress failed to extend it. We’ve talked of workers’ problems, mining and the problems tribal people face, but those letters, too, have had little effect. It’s time to talk directly to you.
Before going further, we wish to ask about something that puzzles us and many other people, namely, why are you so patient? There are food and oil price riots in many countries; in South Korea 50,000 people go into the streets each night to protest the importation of American beef, yet here in the Philippines, which is as poor and as hard hit as any other country by the soaring prices, there seems to be only passive acceptance. This is not our history. Look at the peasant uprisings of the past, look at Edsa I. What has caused this recent passivity?
Have you lost hope in life and the possibility of change? Have you lost faith in government, the elite, the Church? We can imagine your pain with the way things have become worse and worse, but don’t give up for the sake of your children and for the good of the whole country.
What is your perception of the Church? Do you feel it is on your side in the justice struggles that will fashion the Philippines of tomorrow? Do you feel you are in the Church of the Poor that we vowed to become at the Second Plenary Council in 1991? We hope so and we sincerely hope you haven’t lost your willingness to “hunger and thirst for justice.” You well know that no major social change will come about in our country without organized popular pressure from below. Also, no serious thrust to become the Church of the Poor will take place unless you push us in that direction.
What will it take to organize this popular pressure from below? To organize farmers into a large democratic, non-violent movement for a truly valuable land reform, for example. How many farmers must be organized? One million? Why not? The Federation of Free Farmers on the eve of the declaration of martial law had some 300,000 members and was growing rapidly. There are many more farmers now and just as much suffering.
We ask the same question of all downtrodden groups—tribal people, fishermen, workers, urban poor, farmers: What will it take to organize yourselves?
We will give whatever is in our power to give in terms of moral support, funds and training resources. We will recruit idealistic young people and professionals to work alongside you. We will lobby for you as we always have, and we will not hesitate to break with the powerful who resist your efforts to secure your human rights. We will preach the Gospel in the liberating way Jesus did in Luke 4:18-19: “The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to free the oppressed and to proclaim the Lord’s year of mercy.”
May the Lord bless all of us.
Denis Murphy works with Urban Poor Associates. His email address is upa@pldtdsl.net.
©Copyright 2001-2008 INQUIRER.net, An Inquirer Company
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Tutoring for grade school students
Inquirer Opinion / Columns
Commentary : Tutoring for grade school students
By Denis Murphy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: July 13, 2008
MANILA, Philippines—My 7-year-old niece who studies in Mater Carmeli School in Novaliches heard her father talking about high prices and told him: "Don't worry, Papa, I can stop schooling. Anyway, I finished Grade 1." Her parents assured her there was enough money for school and that there was much more to learn. When they tell the story, people laugh.
In the Baseco urban poor area at the mouth of the Pasig River, hundreds of poor children drop out each year from the Hermenigildo J. Atienza Elementary School. Some 918 children began Grade 1 in June 2007, but before the end of the school year, 101 had dropped out: 11 percent of the class. Nobody was laughing. These are 6- or 7-year-old children who are now finished for good with school and thrust into a highly competitive world where even factories require a high school diploma, and fast-food shops require some college education. Some years the figures were worse: in June 2006 the first-grade class began with 943 children, but only 702 finished the year, a dropout rate of 25 percent.
In June this year, 378 children finished elementary school in Baseco. There were 715 when they began in Grade 1 in June 2002. Over the six years of schooling, 47 percent of the children dropped out.
The children drop out for many different reasons. Parents can't afford the school expenses, or they need the children to work to make money, for example, by scavenging, or the children feel they don't fit in or can't keep up with the studies, or the parents just don't care. As a result of all this, almost half the children of Baseco will wind up illiterate, which is equivalent to a life-long sentence to poverty.
No one blames the principal or teachers. There are classes in Baseco with 91 and sometimes more children in the room. How can a teacher handle such a number? Just to keep a modicum of civilization is quite a work. There are two children for every textbook (government figure). There are children so bright they do well despite all the obstacles, but most children are average and below average and these children wind up in the 5th and 6th grades unable to read with any ease in English or Tagalog, and unable to do simple math. If you ask a 6th grade boy or girl in Baseco, how much is 29 plus 15, they will most likely go into some sort of abacus on their fingers. Fingers may be useful for simple addition and subtraction, but not for the math needed to deal with credit cards, bank accounts, bills from utility companies, tax forms and the like. The children will be numerically illiterate.
What to do? The usual suggestions for a bigger education budget, higher salaries for teachers, smaller class size, etc. are all good, but what to do now?
A small tutoring venture in Baseco called Edukasyong Kabalikat para sa Kaunlaran (EKK) has had some success and, in the process, came upon what may be the prime missing ingredient in the present overcrowded school system, namely, the lack of any individual care. It's not a new discovery, of course: good teachers have always known the importance of individual attention to children.
EKK is a small tutoring effort run by the parents of Kabalikat, a people's organization in Baseco, that takes children for six hours a week (two hours a day, three times a week) after regular school. There are classes for 5th and 6th grade boys and girls and first graders. The program only takes students whose academic averages are under 80 percent: the very bright students don't need tutoring and the very slow won't benefit. It is a difficult triage for kids to undergo. Mayette Betasolo is in charge of the EKK committee of parents.
The program focuses on reading (English and Tagalog), math, science and religious values. The classes always have less than 25 students, allowing the young teacher to give some individual time to each student. This individual attention makes a great difference in children's progress. In individual instruction, the teacher can discover what prevents the children from doing their best. The problem may be a serious one, dyslexia, for example, or a much more common one, lack of confidence, shyness, or the inability to form certain sounds. Sometimes it's enough to move a child who has trouble hearing from the last row in a class to the front where he or she can hear the teacher. A good teacher or a good part-time tutor can solve most problems.
Ivy Espineli and Lala Salanga, two young women, both UP graduates, have been EKK's main teachers. They have been successful. All 96 children who finished the 6th grade tutoring over the past four years have passed the government exam for entering high school. All were average students. Of the 96 who have gone to high school, all but five are still in high school or have graduated. EKK is now into its 5th year. The usual percentage for finishing high school is about 20 percent. EKK's graduates may reach a 90 percent graduation rate if present trends continue.
Ivy has given up a well-paying work in Thailand and Makati to tutor in Baseco. Lala is getting her master's at UP.
The Baseco parents who run EKK say there are three reasons for the success EKK has had: one, it focuses on reading, math, science and values and stays away from the other subjects that crowd children's days in school; it gives time for individual attention; and, finally, there is the commitment of the young teachers.
How can we provide similar tutoring for many other children? It need not be six hours a week. If there are only two or three children in a class, maybe two hours a week would be enough. Maybe one hour a week with one child would do. We have thousands of children who need tutoring. We have potential tutors in our college students, young professionals, retired elderly people, the children's parents themselves and older students in the urban poor areas. How do we put students and tutors together? Is there some person(s) with the calling to do this?
Denis Murphy works with the Urban Poor Associates. His e-mail address is upa@pldtdsl.net.
Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
More children out of school
Commentary : Tutoring for grade school students
By Denis Murphy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: July 13, 2008
MANILA, Philippines—My 7-year-old niece who studies in Mater Carmeli School in Novaliches heard her father talking about high prices and told him: "Don't worry, Papa, I can stop schooling. Anyway, I finished Grade 1." Her parents assured her there was enough money for school and that there was much more to learn. When they tell the story, people laugh.
In the Baseco urban poor area at the mouth of the Pasig River, hundreds of poor children drop out each year from the Hermenigildo J. Atienza Elementary School. Some 918 children began Grade 1 in June 2007, but before the end of the school year, 101 had dropped out: 11 percent of the class. Nobody was laughing. These are 6- or 7-year-old children who are now finished for good with school and thrust into a highly competitive world where even factories require a high school diploma, and fast-food shops require some college education. Some years the figures were worse: in June 2006 the first-grade class began with 943 children, but only 702 finished the year, a dropout rate of 25 percent.
In June this year, 378 children finished elementary school in Baseco. There were 715 when they began in Grade 1 in June 2002. Over the six years of schooling, 47 percent of the children dropped out.
The children drop out for many different reasons. Parents can't afford the school expenses, or they need the children to work to make money, for example, by scavenging, or the children feel they don't fit in or can't keep up with the studies, or the parents just don't care. As a result of all this, almost half the children of Baseco will wind up illiterate, which is equivalent to a life-long sentence to poverty.
No one blames the principal or teachers. There are classes in Baseco with 91 and sometimes more children in the room. How can a teacher handle such a number? Just to keep a modicum of civilization is quite a work. There are two children for every textbook (government figure). There are children so bright they do well despite all the obstacles, but most children are average and below average and these children wind up in the 5th and 6th grades unable to read with any ease in English or Tagalog, and unable to do simple math. If you ask a 6th grade boy or girl in Baseco, how much is 29 plus 15, they will most likely go into some sort of abacus on their fingers. Fingers may be useful for simple addition and subtraction, but not for the math needed to deal with credit cards, bank accounts, bills from utility companies, tax forms and the like. The children will be numerically illiterate.
What to do? The usual suggestions for a bigger education budget, higher salaries for teachers, smaller class size, etc. are all good, but what to do now?
A small tutoring venture in Baseco called Edukasyong Kabalikat para sa Kaunlaran (EKK) has had some success and, in the process, came upon what may be the prime missing ingredient in the present overcrowded school system, namely, the lack of any individual care. It's not a new discovery, of course: good teachers have always known the importance of individual attention to children.
EKK is a small tutoring effort run by the parents of Kabalikat, a people's organization in Baseco, that takes children for six hours a week (two hours a day, three times a week) after regular school. There are classes for 5th and 6th grade boys and girls and first graders. The program only takes students whose academic averages are under 80 percent: the very bright students don't need tutoring and the very slow won't benefit. It is a difficult triage for kids to undergo. Mayette Betasolo is in charge of the EKK committee of parents.
The program focuses on reading (English and Tagalog), math, science and religious values. The classes always have less than 25 students, allowing the young teacher to give some individual time to each student. This individual attention makes a great difference in children's progress. In individual instruction, the teacher can discover what prevents the children from doing their best. The problem may be a serious one, dyslexia, for example, or a much more common one, lack of confidence, shyness, or the inability to form certain sounds. Sometimes it's enough to move a child who has trouble hearing from the last row in a class to the front where he or she can hear the teacher. A good teacher or a good part-time tutor can solve most problems.
Ivy Espineli and Lala Salanga, two young women, both UP graduates, have been EKK's main teachers. They have been successful. All 96 children who finished the 6th grade tutoring over the past four years have passed the government exam for entering high school. All were average students. Of the 96 who have gone to high school, all but five are still in high school or have graduated. EKK is now into its 5th year. The usual percentage for finishing high school is about 20 percent. EKK's graduates may reach a 90 percent graduation rate if present trends continue.
Ivy has given up a well-paying work in Thailand and Makati to tutor in Baseco. Lala is getting her master's at UP.
The Baseco parents who run EKK say there are three reasons for the success EKK has had: one, it focuses on reading, math, science and values and stays away from the other subjects that crowd children's days in school; it gives time for individual attention; and, finally, there is the commitment of the young teachers.
How can we provide similar tutoring for many other children? It need not be six hours a week. If there are only two or three children in a class, maybe two hours a week would be enough. Maybe one hour a week with one child would do. We have thousands of children who need tutoring. We have potential tutors in our college students, young professionals, retired elderly people, the children's parents themselves and older students in the urban poor areas. How do we put students and tutors together? Is there some person(s) with the calling to do this?
Denis Murphy works with the Urban Poor Associates. His e-mail address is upa@pldtdsl.net.
Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
More children out of school
Monday, July 07, 2008
Makati fire victims seek help
07/06/2008 | 09:56 PM
750 homeless in Makati fire
07/07/2008 | 12:36 AM
Fire hits compound in Makati for nth time
Makati fire affects 2,000 families, destroys 500 homes
18 hurt in Makati slum area fire
750 homeless in Makati fire
07/07/2008 | 12:36 AM
Fire hits compound in Makati for nth time
Makati fire affects 2,000 families, destroys 500 homes
18 hurt in Makati slum area fire
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Several houses in QC to be demolished over land row
06/13/2008 | 12:39 PM
Residents voluntarily demolish shanties in QC
06/13/2008 | 11:15 AM
Residents voluntarily demolish shanties in QC
06/13/2008 | 11:15 AM
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Muslims in Baclaran, Groups Resist Forced Eviction
** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE **
Muslims in Baclaran, Groups Resist Forced Eviction
12 June 2008. Muslims have warned the government against the demolition of their mosque situated at a reclamation site in Baclaran and said that forced eviction of some 300 families would be the bloodiest in Philippine history.
Tension gripped the Muslim community Wednesday after a government demolition team tried to approach the residents who are willing to fight to their death opposing forced eviction and the demolition of their shanties.
Armed with sticks and stones, angry residents blocked some 200 crewmen while some 30 Special Weapons and Action Team (SWAT) secure the area.
As early as 7 am, police were already in the area, according to Abdelmanan Tanandato. Tanandato, a local leader, said the demolition team is using a writ of execution issued by Fortunito Madrona, Presiding Judge of the Parañaque City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 274.
By 9 am, the demolition team started to move in the Muslim community but they later backed off due to the fierce offensive movement of residents. Chanting “Alah Wakbar” (Alah is great), residents had vowed to protect the mosque.
To prevent serious untoward incidents, Muslim leaders held a dialogue with Jeffrey Sales, the RTC sheriff. Sales agreed to give the residents more time to get a legal remedy like temporary restraining order (TRO).
During a public hearing at the Senate last Tuesday, Tanandato asked Senator Noynoy Aquino to intervene on behalf of the Muslim families. Senator Aquino said he would call Andrea Domingo, General Manager of the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) to halt the demolition and arrange a dialogue.
Senator Aquino had recently filed Senate Resolution No. 402 directing the committee on local government to investigate in aid of legislation, the implementation of Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA) of 1992. This is principally on the mandate of local government units to conduct inventory of all lands within their respective localities and identify sites for socialized housing and resettlement areas.
After 15 years UDHA has failed to provide for a comprehensive and continuing urban development and housing program due to terrible implementation, according to Urban Poor Associates (UPA), a housing rights NGO. “Thousands of families are literally evicted and left in the streets without relocation. Of the 2,781 families evicted this year in Metro Manila, excluding railroad evictions, only 9% received relocation.”
In an oral statement about the Philippine’s Universal Periodic Review which the government submitted to the United Nation’s Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Center on Housing Rights and Evictions (COHRE) drew attention to the continuing prevalence of forced evictions. In a session held in Geneva, Switzerland, COHRE said the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in particular evicted over 2,000 families last year, without resettlement benefits in over 90% of the cases.
COHRE will also raise to the Human Rights Council the issue of forced eviction of Muslims in Baclaran and write a letter of concern to the Philippine government. -30-
Monday, June 09, 2008
MMDA goes after illegal vendors in Quezon City
06/09/2008 | 07:41 PM
Saksi: Mga ambulant vendor sa paligid ng ilang eskwelahan sa Metro Manila, tinarget ng MMDA
06/09/2008 | 11:43 PM
Saksi: Mga ambulant vendor sa paligid ng ilang eskwelahan sa Metro Manila, tinarget ng MMDA
06/09/2008 | 11:43 PM
Monday, June 02, 2008
190-Hectare Reclamation Project Raises Fears Among Baseco Residents
.JPG)
** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE **
02 June 2008. Mail brigades have been launched for President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to see the fear some 10,000 families have of being evicted because of the government’s plan to move them from the land proclaimed for them at the Bataan Shipyard and Engineering Company (Baseco) Compound at the Port Area in Manila.
Baseco residents have filed to Malacañang everyday since May 13 to bring the letters the people are writing everyday to the president appealing for help.
On May 13 President Arroyo led the groundbreaking ceremony of the Baseco Reclamation Expansion Project. Phase 1 of the reclamation project is a 10-hectare reclamation project, costing P252 million, to be a socialized housing project for 3,000 families. The reclamation project to be undertaken by Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) is located outside the existing 56-hectare Baseco compound that was proclaimed for the 6,000-8,000 resident families in 2002.
The Master plan shows that Phase 2 of the reclamation project, making a total area of 180.14 hectares, includes an oil depot area, dumping ground, anchorage area, buffer zone/inland channel and 135-hectares of saleable lots.
In the letters, the residents thank President Arroyo for having proclaimed Baseco as a socialized housing, but say that up to now no documents have been issued pertaining to the land titles in the reclamation that guarantee security of tenure.
The government says it will reclaim the 10 hectares as proposed and move families there from the 56 hectares. The government will then develop 35 hectares of the 56 hectares proclaimed for commercial purposes.
Urban Poor Associates (UPA), in a press statement, noted that the residents are afraid of the reclamation project due to the following points:
- There are plans for 3,000 families. What will happen to all the other families?
- It is not clear who the beneficiaries are. Will it be only families censused in 2001? What of the other thousands of families living there now? (The City of Manila had conducted a survey in 2001 with 6,000 families.)
- Will the 3,000 units be affordable?
- Will the 2,000 houses of Gawad Kalinga and Habitat for Humanity built a short time ago with private donations of P60 million remain or will they be removed?
- Who is the main stakeholder in this huge venture? Where will financing come from?
- Does the fact that the land is proclaimed limit what uses can be made of it? If it was proclaimed for homes, can it be used for commerce?
According to UPA, a housing rights NGO, the Land Proclamation program of the government, 2001-2004 set aside government lands for the homes of the poor. Some 200,000 families lived on these lands and benefited. However, there have been few proclamations after the 2004 presidential elections. Some of the proclamations are being amended or radically changed; and finally, there has been no follow-up upgrading and titling program in these areas which means the fear of forced eviction is ever present. ###
Manila's informal settlers wary about reclamation project
Friday, May 16, 2008
1 hurt as MMDA personnel clash with vendors at Muñoz market
05/15/2008 | 04:53 PM
MMDA personnel, vendors clash
05/15/2008 | 07:23 PM
Saksi: MMDA men clash with illegal vendors in Quezon City
05/15/2008 | 11:47 PM
MMDA personnel, vendors clash
05/15/2008 | 07:23 PM
Saksi: MMDA men clash with illegal vendors in Quezon City
05/15/2008 | 11:47 PM
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Over 200 shanties demolished in Balintawak
05/14/2008 | 12:20 PM
MMDA demolishes 200 shanties in Quezon City
05/14/2008 | 06:57 PM
MMDA demolishes 200 shanties in Quezon City
05/14/2008 | 06:57 PM
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tension marks demolition inside Camp Karingal in Quezon City
04/30/2008 | 10:37 AM
QTV: Tension marks demolition inside Camp Karingal
04/30/2008 | 12:03 PM
Residents clash with cops during demolition in QC
04/30/2008 | 06:43 PM
1 nabbed as squatters evicted inside QC police camp
QTV: Tension marks demolition inside Camp Karingal
04/30/2008 | 12:03 PM
Residents clash with cops during demolition in QC
04/30/2008 | 06:43 PM
1 nabbed as squatters evicted inside QC police camp
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
MMDA demolishes 400 houses in Bagong Pag-Asa, Quezon City
04/28/2008 | 06:51 PM
QTV: 300 shanties demolished in Quezon City
04/28/2008 | 12:33 PM
Nearly 400 shanties demolished in QC
QTV: 300 shanties demolished in Quezon City
04/28/2008 | 12:33 PM
Nearly 400 shanties demolished in QC
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition (TF-AID) letter to NHA General Manager Federico Laxa
Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolitions
c/o Urban Poor Associates (UPA), 25-A Mabuhay St. Brgy. Central, Quezon City
Tel.426-7615/922-0246/723-7420
Ika 21 ng Abril 2008
KGG. FEDERICO LAXA
General Manager
National Housing Authority
Elliptical Road
Quezon City
Ginoong GM Laxa,
Pagbati ng Kapayapaan!
Dalawang-buwan at kalahati na po ang lumipas mula noong ika 31 ng Enero 2008 na pagpupulong sa Heroes Hall ng Malacanang na pinamunuan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at kasama ang mga housing officials tulad po ninyo at G. Froilan Kampitan, MMDA, PCUP, mga kinatawan ng Catholic Bishops Conference na sina Arzobispo Talamayan at Obispo Villena, at mga kinatawan ng Task Force Anti Illegal Demolition. Sa susunod na mga araw kami po ay mag-uulat sa mga kinatawan ng CBCP; sila po ay nagpaabot sa amin ng kanilang kagustuhan na malaman ano ang mga nangyari at nangyayari pagkatapos ng pulong sa Malacanang.
Kung susumahin ang mga sumusunod po ang mga mahalagang napagpasyahan at sinangayunan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sa nasabing pulong:
1. Gawing relokasyon ang mga lugar na nasa lungsod at malalapit sa lungsod (in-city and near-city relocation sites) tulad ng Navotas, Taguig at Montalban/Rodriguez.
2. Walang cut-off date ukol sa mga benepisyaryo ng UDHA. Lahat ng mga maralitang tagalungsod ay saklaw ng batas at ng proteksyon nito.
3. Mayroong dagdag na badyet na 4 bilyong piso para sa panglipunang pabahay laluna sa mga pamilyang apektado ng mga proyektong imprastruktura ng pamahalaan at mga pamilyang nasa danger areas.
4. Maglabas ng Post-Proclamation Implementing Rules and Regulations upang ang mga lupang naiproklama ng pamahalaan ay mapaunlad (upgrading) at sa kalaunan ay maipamahagi sa mga naninirahan doon.
5. Ang BASECO ay para sa socialized housing at hindi para sa gamit komersyal. Ang gagawing reklamasyon ng PRA (Philippine Reclamation Authority) na malapit doon ay para din sa socialized housing.
6. Walang demolisyon kung walang relokasyon. Dapat sundin, kasama na ang Department of National Defense, ang prosesong nakasaad sa batas at magbigay ng 45 araw na palugit bilang social preparation.
Naglabas ng mga instruksyon ang ating Pangulo na naitala sa katitikan ng pulong ng pinadala namin sa kanya at mga Obispo at ang katititkan na nilabas ni PCUP (kalakip ng sulat):
Ngunit mula noon hanggang ngayon patuloy na nagaganap ang mga demolisyon at mga banta ng demolisyon ng mga bahay na mga pamilyang naninirahan sa mga tinataguirang danger areas at mga pamilyang apektadong ng mga proyektong imprastruktura ng pamahalaan.
Malinaw ang tugon at direktiba ni Pangulong Arroyo na bigyan ng prayoridad ang in-city at near city relocation sites tulad ng Taguig, Navotas at laluna ang Montalban dahil ito’y malapit at mayroong mga batayang serbisyo. Ngunit hanggang ngayon ang patuloy na inaalok na mga relokasyon ay malalayo at kulang na kulang sa mga batayang serbisyo tulad ng Calauan at Towerville.
Sa pakikipag-usap kay AGM Kampitan nitong nakarang mga lingo, sinabi niya ang dalawang bagay kung bakit hindi tumutulak ang Montalban; walang interesadong developer na gustong pumasok sa Montalban at ang suspension ni Mayor Cuerpo. Kami po nagtatanong: kailan po ninyo binuksan ang bidding at/o paglalabas ng patalastas upang maghikayat ng developer? Malamang na nabasa na po ninyo ang kopya ng proposal na isinumite ni Mayor Cuerpo kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Ano po ang komentaryo o feedback ninyo? Ayon sa proposal na ito may 6,000 lote na pag-aari ng HGC, 300 ektarya na mga abandoned subdivisions at 500 ektaryang lupa sa Lungsod Silangan na maaaring gamitin bilang relokasyon ng mga maralita mula sa Metro Manila.
Ang mga pamahalaang lokal ng Navotas at Taguig ay may mga inihain sa Pangulo na relokasyon sa loob ng siyudad. Ayon sa direktiba ni Pangulong Macapagal-Arroyo dapat kakausapin sila, kasama ang LGU ng Montalban/Rodriguez. Ano po ang resulta ng pag-uusap? Naresolba na po ang usapin ng pondo mula sa national government para sa kanilang in-city relocation site proposals?
Ano po ang mga pagkilos at plano ng NHA upang matugunan ang mga direktiba ng Pangulo? Panahon po ngayon ng bakasyon at may mga pamilyang inilikas at nangagambang ililikas.
Noong ika 25 ng Pebreror 2008 nagsimula ang paglikas ng mga pamilyang biktima ng maling demolisyon ng MMDA sa Nissan, Tatalon mula sa “staging area” patungo sa Towerville, ngunit mas matindi pa ang nangyari sa mga pamilyang ito; sapagka’t mula sa staging area kung saan may direktang nasisilungan pa sila patungo sa Towerville na wala kahit na isang pirasong bubong na naihanda. Hindi rin handa ang mga sasakyan ng First Batch na inilikas.
Ganito rin ang napipintong problemang haharapin ng mga kasapi ng 787 Neighborhood Association sa Barangay Sta Cruz, lungsod ng Quezon, na ang napiling relokasyon ay Montalban.
Nitong mga nakaraang araw kinakausap na rin ng mga opisyales ng barangay at LGU ng Pasay ang mga pamilyang naninirahan sa tabing Estero Tripa de Gallina. Sinabihan silang ililikas sila sa Calauan. Ngunit ang mga apektadong pamilya, kasama na ang mga lider na nakadalo sa pulong sa Malacanang ay naninindigang Montalban ang pinipili nilang relokasyon.
Ang mga pamilyang naninirahan sa Estero de Paco at sa mga komunidad tulad ng Tondo, Sta Cruz at Sampaloc sa lungsod ng Maynila na apektado NSLP (Northrail-Southrail Linkage Project) ay matagal nang naninindigan na Montalban ang kanilang relokasyon.
Ayon sa Philippine Fishport Development Authority sa darating na ika 30 ng Abril 2008 sisimulan ang paggiba ng mga bahay sa Market 3, Philippine Fishport, Navotas. Pera po ang inaalok ng PFDA sa kanila ngunit ang karamihan ng mga apektadong pamilya ay gustong magpalikas sa Montalban.
Ibig po naming magkaroon ng kalinawan ang mga nabanggit na usapin at kagyat na magsagawa ng kaukulang aksyon ang inyong tanggapan upang umandar ang mga napagkaisahan sa Malakanyang.
Gayun din, mungkahi naming na gawin nating aktibo ang paglahok namin sa mga aksyon at kilos na inyong isasagawa, upang kami ay makasubaybay sa buong proseso ng paghahanda at pagsasaayos ng mga gawain alinsunod sa direktiba ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Para sa Katiyakan sa Isang Disente, Makatao at Abot-Kayang Pabahay,
Gumagalang,
TASK FORCE-AID
c/o Urban Poor Associates (UPA), 25-A Mabuhay St. Brgy. Central, Quezon City
Tel.426-7615/922-0246/723-7420
Ika 21 ng Abril 2008
KGG. FEDERICO LAXA
General Manager
National Housing Authority
Elliptical Road
Quezon City
Ginoong GM Laxa,
Pagbati ng Kapayapaan!
Dalawang-buwan at kalahati na po ang lumipas mula noong ika 31 ng Enero 2008 na pagpupulong sa Heroes Hall ng Malacanang na pinamunuan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at kasama ang mga housing officials tulad po ninyo at G. Froilan Kampitan, MMDA, PCUP, mga kinatawan ng Catholic Bishops Conference na sina Arzobispo Talamayan at Obispo Villena, at mga kinatawan ng Task Force Anti Illegal Demolition. Sa susunod na mga araw kami po ay mag-uulat sa mga kinatawan ng CBCP; sila po ay nagpaabot sa amin ng kanilang kagustuhan na malaman ano ang mga nangyari at nangyayari pagkatapos ng pulong sa Malacanang.
Kung susumahin ang mga sumusunod po ang mga mahalagang napagpasyahan at sinangayunan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sa nasabing pulong:
1. Gawing relokasyon ang mga lugar na nasa lungsod at malalapit sa lungsod (in-city and near-city relocation sites) tulad ng Navotas, Taguig at Montalban/Rodriguez.
2. Walang cut-off date ukol sa mga benepisyaryo ng UDHA. Lahat ng mga maralitang tagalungsod ay saklaw ng batas at ng proteksyon nito.
3. Mayroong dagdag na badyet na 4 bilyong piso para sa panglipunang pabahay laluna sa mga pamilyang apektado ng mga proyektong imprastruktura ng pamahalaan at mga pamilyang nasa danger areas.
4. Maglabas ng Post-Proclamation Implementing Rules and Regulations upang ang mga lupang naiproklama ng pamahalaan ay mapaunlad (upgrading) at sa kalaunan ay maipamahagi sa mga naninirahan doon.
5. Ang BASECO ay para sa socialized housing at hindi para sa gamit komersyal. Ang gagawing reklamasyon ng PRA (Philippine Reclamation Authority) na malapit doon ay para din sa socialized housing.
6. Walang demolisyon kung walang relokasyon. Dapat sundin, kasama na ang Department of National Defense, ang prosesong nakasaad sa batas at magbigay ng 45 araw na palugit bilang social preparation.
Naglabas ng mga instruksyon ang ating Pangulo na naitala sa katitikan ng pulong ng pinadala namin sa kanya at mga Obispo at ang katititkan na nilabas ni PCUP (kalakip ng sulat):
Ngunit mula noon hanggang ngayon patuloy na nagaganap ang mga demolisyon at mga banta ng demolisyon ng mga bahay na mga pamilyang naninirahan sa mga tinataguirang danger areas at mga pamilyang apektadong ng mga proyektong imprastruktura ng pamahalaan.
Malinaw ang tugon at direktiba ni Pangulong Arroyo na bigyan ng prayoridad ang in-city at near city relocation sites tulad ng Taguig, Navotas at laluna ang Montalban dahil ito’y malapit at mayroong mga batayang serbisyo. Ngunit hanggang ngayon ang patuloy na inaalok na mga relokasyon ay malalayo at kulang na kulang sa mga batayang serbisyo tulad ng Calauan at Towerville.
Sa pakikipag-usap kay AGM Kampitan nitong nakarang mga lingo, sinabi niya ang dalawang bagay kung bakit hindi tumutulak ang Montalban; walang interesadong developer na gustong pumasok sa Montalban at ang suspension ni Mayor Cuerpo. Kami po nagtatanong: kailan po ninyo binuksan ang bidding at/o paglalabas ng patalastas upang maghikayat ng developer? Malamang na nabasa na po ninyo ang kopya ng proposal na isinumite ni Mayor Cuerpo kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Ano po ang komentaryo o feedback ninyo? Ayon sa proposal na ito may 6,000 lote na pag-aari ng HGC, 300 ektarya na mga abandoned subdivisions at 500 ektaryang lupa sa Lungsod Silangan na maaaring gamitin bilang relokasyon ng mga maralita mula sa Metro Manila.
Ang mga pamahalaang lokal ng Navotas at Taguig ay may mga inihain sa Pangulo na relokasyon sa loob ng siyudad. Ayon sa direktiba ni Pangulong Macapagal-Arroyo dapat kakausapin sila, kasama ang LGU ng Montalban/Rodriguez. Ano po ang resulta ng pag-uusap? Naresolba na po ang usapin ng pondo mula sa national government para sa kanilang in-city relocation site proposals?
Ano po ang mga pagkilos at plano ng NHA upang matugunan ang mga direktiba ng Pangulo? Panahon po ngayon ng bakasyon at may mga pamilyang inilikas at nangagambang ililikas.
Noong ika 25 ng Pebreror 2008 nagsimula ang paglikas ng mga pamilyang biktima ng maling demolisyon ng MMDA sa Nissan, Tatalon mula sa “staging area” patungo sa Towerville, ngunit mas matindi pa ang nangyari sa mga pamilyang ito; sapagka’t mula sa staging area kung saan may direktang nasisilungan pa sila patungo sa Towerville na wala kahit na isang pirasong bubong na naihanda. Hindi rin handa ang mga sasakyan ng First Batch na inilikas.
Ganito rin ang napipintong problemang haharapin ng mga kasapi ng 787 Neighborhood Association sa Barangay Sta Cruz, lungsod ng Quezon, na ang napiling relokasyon ay Montalban.
Nitong mga nakaraang araw kinakausap na rin ng mga opisyales ng barangay at LGU ng Pasay ang mga pamilyang naninirahan sa tabing Estero Tripa de Gallina. Sinabihan silang ililikas sila sa Calauan. Ngunit ang mga apektadong pamilya, kasama na ang mga lider na nakadalo sa pulong sa Malacanang ay naninindigang Montalban ang pinipili nilang relokasyon.
Ang mga pamilyang naninirahan sa Estero de Paco at sa mga komunidad tulad ng Tondo, Sta Cruz at Sampaloc sa lungsod ng Maynila na apektado NSLP (Northrail-Southrail Linkage Project) ay matagal nang naninindigan na Montalban ang kanilang relokasyon.
Ayon sa Philippine Fishport Development Authority sa darating na ika 30 ng Abril 2008 sisimulan ang paggiba ng mga bahay sa Market 3, Philippine Fishport, Navotas. Pera po ang inaalok ng PFDA sa kanila ngunit ang karamihan ng mga apektadong pamilya ay gustong magpalikas sa Montalban.
Ibig po naming magkaroon ng kalinawan ang mga nabanggit na usapin at kagyat na magsagawa ng kaukulang aksyon ang inyong tanggapan upang umandar ang mga napagkaisahan sa Malakanyang.
Gayun din, mungkahi naming na gawin nating aktibo ang paglahok namin sa mga aksyon at kilos na inyong isasagawa, upang kami ay makasubaybay sa buong proseso ng paghahanda at pagsasaayos ng mga gawain alinsunod sa direktiba ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Para sa Katiyakan sa Isang Disente, Makatao at Abot-Kayang Pabahay,
Gumagalang,
TASK FORCE-AID
Friday, April 18, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY: Urban poor groups set to stage protest rally at the NHA office in QC
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
Urban poor groups set to stage protest rally at the NHA office in QC
Urban poor groups led by the Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition (TF-AID) will stage a rally on Monday at the National Housing Authority (NHA) main office in Quezon City to protest the government agency’s non-compliance of the PGMA’s instructions issued January 31st 2008 in Malacañang Palace in a meeting attended by housing officials, urban poor representatives and CBCP representatives Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan and Bishop Ramon Villena.
In that meeting the President agreed to in-city and near-city relocation sites in Taguig, Navotas and Montalban. So the urban poor leaders will ask NHA General Manager Laxa what he has done regarding these sites.
The President also said in that meeting that she has allocated 4 billion pesos for families affected by gov’t infrastructure projects and for families living in danger areas. The TF-AID will ask NHA what happened to the money.
The urban poor leaders say they will report to the CBCP the outcome of the meeting with NHA.
Photo ops: Protesters will line up for porridge (lugaw) to dramatize the situation of urban poor people who will be displaced amid looming food crisis.
Date: April 21, 2008 (Monday)
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: In front of the National Housing Authority (NHA) Main Office, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
MEDIA ADVISORY
Urban poor groups set to stage protest rally at the NHA office in QC
Urban poor groups led by the Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition (TF-AID) will stage a rally on Monday at the National Housing Authority (NHA) main office in Quezon City to protest the government agency’s non-compliance of the PGMA’s instructions issued January 31st 2008 in Malacañang Palace in a meeting attended by housing officials, urban poor representatives and CBCP representatives Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan and Bishop Ramon Villena.
In that meeting the President agreed to in-city and near-city relocation sites in Taguig, Navotas and Montalban. So the urban poor leaders will ask NHA General Manager Laxa what he has done regarding these sites.
The President also said in that meeting that she has allocated 4 billion pesos for families affected by gov’t infrastructure projects and for families living in danger areas. The TF-AID will ask NHA what happened to the money.
The urban poor leaders say they will report to the CBCP the outcome of the meeting with NHA.
Photo ops: Protesters will line up for porridge (lugaw) to dramatize the situation of urban poor people who will be displaced amid looming food crisis.
Date: April 21, 2008 (Monday)
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: In front of the National Housing Authority (NHA) Main Office, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
TRO sought against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE *** NEWS RELEASE **
TRO sought against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
16 April 2008. To prevent their eviction and the demolition of their houses, settlers along the railway and Radial Road 10 (R-10) are seeking a temporary restraining order against the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine National Railways (PNR) and National Housing Authority (NHA).
Petitioners filed their petition for a TRO and preliminary injunction April 16 at the Supreme Court. The settlers who live along the railroad tracks in Sta. Cruz, Tondo and Sampaloc, Manila are being threatened with demolitions and evictions due to the Northrail Southrail Linkage Project (NSLP). While the residents along R-10, North Bay Boulevard in Navotas City are affected by the road-widening project.
The government agencies should be prohibited from evicting the informal settlers and demolishing houses since the evictions are being carried out in utter violation of the constitutional guarantees and safeguards regarding forced evictions vis-à-vis Republic Act 7279, otherwise known as the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA), according to the Urban Poor Associates (UPA), a non-government organization who provided the assistance through its legal unit, the St. Thomas More Law Center.
“The respondent government agencies brazenly laid down its plan of actions for the year 2008 which involve the demolition of houses and evictions of thousands of urban informal settlers in the guise of carrying out its development and/or clearing operation along the whole stretch of railroad tracks and Road 10, Navotas City,” the counsel for the petitioners, lawyer Bienvenido Salinas Jr. and Ritche Esponilla, said in a statement.”
Other NGOs such as the Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN) and Community Organizers of the Philippine Enterprise (COPE) Foundation co-sponsored the filing of the case.
The group cited the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) who admittedly observed several flaws in the conduct of demolitions and evictions in urban poor communities. Such violations are: a mere 5 five days verbal notice; No consultation; Insufficient fund; No relocation; Proponent (like MMDA) do not apply for the Certificate of Compliance with PCUP as required by E.O. 152; Affected families are forced to receive financial assistance instead of relocation; Relocation sites have few if any available economic opportunities; and Relocation sites have no adequate basic services.
“These looming threats of eviction and demolition despite non-compliance with what are required by no less the Constitution and UDHA – e.g. prior notice/s, adequate relocation and consultation which continuously being undertaken by the respondent government agencies inflict gross injustice on the urban poor community. The effect and impact of massive displacements of affected families, including women and children, cannot be denied.”
Petitioners are aware of the basic principle on the observance of hierarchy of courts. With due deference, however, petitioners find it proper to file this suit directly before the Supreme Court under the exception that “when the issue at hand transcends national interest and with a sense of urgency, petition of this nature may be filed directly with the High Court.”
“Undeniably, the issue at hand which will create, as in fact it has created in last year’s demolitions and evictions, massive displacement of affected families within the railroad tracks transcends national interest. This concerns human beings who are also accorded basic rights by no less the Constitution itself to life and shelter. They cannot simply be dragged and forced from their makeshifts in the guise of development and promotion of general welfare.”
Some 50,000 families living on the railroad tracks will be evicted because of the railway project. About 30,000 families still remain on the tracks. While some 16,000 families along R-10 will be evicted due to the road-widening project. -30-
Urban poor group seeks SC's help vs demolitions
Urban poor asks Supreme Court to stop demolitions
Manila, Navotas residents seek TRO vs MMDA demolition
Group asks SC to stop eviction of railway residents
Group says railway project to displace 50,000 families
Stop to demolition
TRO sought against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
16 April 2008. To prevent their eviction and the demolition of their houses, settlers along the railway and Radial Road 10 (R-10) are seeking a temporary restraining order against the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine National Railways (PNR) and National Housing Authority (NHA).
Petitioners filed their petition for a TRO and preliminary injunction April 16 at the Supreme Court. The settlers who live along the railroad tracks in Sta. Cruz, Tondo and Sampaloc, Manila are being threatened with demolitions and evictions due to the Northrail Southrail Linkage Project (NSLP). While the residents along R-10, North Bay Boulevard in Navotas City are affected by the road-widening project.
The government agencies should be prohibited from evicting the informal settlers and demolishing houses since the evictions are being carried out in utter violation of the constitutional guarantees and safeguards regarding forced evictions vis-à-vis Republic Act 7279, otherwise known as the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA), according to the Urban Poor Associates (UPA), a non-government organization who provided the assistance through its legal unit, the St. Thomas More Law Center.
“The respondent government agencies brazenly laid down its plan of actions for the year 2008 which involve the demolition of houses and evictions of thousands of urban informal settlers in the guise of carrying out its development and/or clearing operation along the whole stretch of railroad tracks and Road 10, Navotas City,” the counsel for the petitioners, lawyer Bienvenido Salinas Jr. and Ritche Esponilla, said in a statement.”
Other NGOs such as the Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN) and Community Organizers of the Philippine Enterprise (COPE) Foundation co-sponsored the filing of the case.
The group cited the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) who admittedly observed several flaws in the conduct of demolitions and evictions in urban poor communities. Such violations are: a mere 5 five days verbal notice; No consultation; Insufficient fund; No relocation; Proponent (like MMDA) do not apply for the Certificate of Compliance with PCUP as required by E.O. 152; Affected families are forced to receive financial assistance instead of relocation; Relocation sites have few if any available economic opportunities; and Relocation sites have no adequate basic services.
“These looming threats of eviction and demolition despite non-compliance with what are required by no less the Constitution and UDHA – e.g. prior notice/s, adequate relocation and consultation which continuously being undertaken by the respondent government agencies inflict gross injustice on the urban poor community. The effect and impact of massive displacements of affected families, including women and children, cannot be denied.”
Petitioners are aware of the basic principle on the observance of hierarchy of courts. With due deference, however, petitioners find it proper to file this suit directly before the Supreme Court under the exception that “when the issue at hand transcends national interest and with a sense of urgency, petition of this nature may be filed directly with the High Court.”
“Undeniably, the issue at hand which will create, as in fact it has created in last year’s demolitions and evictions, massive displacement of affected families within the railroad tracks transcends national interest. This concerns human beings who are also accorded basic rights by no less the Constitution itself to life and shelter. They cannot simply be dragged and forced from their makeshifts in the guise of development and promotion of general welfare.”
Some 50,000 families living on the railroad tracks will be evicted because of the railway project. About 30,000 families still remain on the tracks. While some 16,000 families along R-10 will be evicted due to the road-widening project. -30-
Urban poor group seeks SC's help vs demolitions
Urban poor asks Supreme Court to stop demolitions
Manila, Navotas residents seek TRO vs MMDA demolition
Group asks SC to stop eviction of railway residents
Group says railway project to displace 50,000 families
Stop to demolition
Monday, April 14, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY : Settlers to seek Supreme Court TRO against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
Settlers to seek Supreme Court TRO against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
The Urban Poor Associates (UPA), Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN) and Community Organizers of the Philippine Enterprise (COPE) Foundation request your presence at a media conference to be held at the Max’s Restaurant on Wednesday, April 16 (11:00 AM).
It will coincide with the filing of Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine National Railways (PNR) and National Housing Authority (NHA).
Settlers who will be affected by the Northrail Southrail Linkage Project (NSLP) in Manila and the road-widening project along Radial Road 10 (R-10) in Navotas are seeking a TRO at the Supreme Court to prevent their eviction and the demolition of their houses in the absence of compliance with what is required by the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA).
Some 50,000 families living on the railroad tracks will be evicted because of the railway project. About 30,000 families still remain on the tracks. While some 16,000 families along R-10 will be evicted due to the road-widening project.
Press Conference
Date: April 16, 2008 (Wednesday)
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Max’s Restaurant, 1123 Ma. Orosa St., Brgy. 669, Ermita, City of Manila (Mercedes Function Room)
MEDIA ADVISORY
Settlers to seek Supreme Court TRO against MMDA, DPWH, PNR, NHA to stop forced eviction
The Urban Poor Associates (UPA), Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN) and Community Organizers of the Philippine Enterprise (COPE) Foundation request your presence at a media conference to be held at the Max’s Restaurant on Wednesday, April 16 (11:00 AM).
It will coincide with the filing of Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine National Railways (PNR) and National Housing Authority (NHA).
Settlers who will be affected by the Northrail Southrail Linkage Project (NSLP) in Manila and the road-widening project along Radial Road 10 (R-10) in Navotas are seeking a TRO at the Supreme Court to prevent their eviction and the demolition of their houses in the absence of compliance with what is required by the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA).
Some 50,000 families living on the railroad tracks will be evicted because of the railway project. About 30,000 families still remain on the tracks. While some 16,000 families along R-10 will be evicted due to the road-widening project.
Press Conference
Date: April 16, 2008 (Wednesday)
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: Max’s Restaurant, 1123 Ma. Orosa St., Brgy. 669, Ermita, City of Manila (Mercedes Function Room)
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Hanjin evicts squatters in Subic
04/09/2008 | 07:59 PM
Relocated Subic illegal settlers unhappy with new homes
04/09/2008 | 10:10 PM
Relocated Subic illegal settlers unhappy with new homes
04/09/2008 | 10:10 PM
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Expert warns price of rice may reach P75/kilo
04/02/2008 | 12:35 PM
UP Prof warns price of rice could shoot up to P50 - P70 per kilo
04/02/2008 | 10:32 PM
Rice crisis to kick in during lean months--UP prof
Famine possible with non-stop rise in oil, rice prices - expert
Groups urge gov’t to admit food crisis, implement solutions
Groups seek solution to food problem
DA: High spending key to hiking harvest
People’s Food Summit Declares: Hunger is Governance Crisis!
UP Prof warns price of rice could shoot up to P50 - P70 per kilo
04/02/2008 | 10:32 PM
Rice crisis to kick in during lean months--UP prof
Famine possible with non-stop rise in oil, rice prices - expert
Groups urge gov’t to admit food crisis, implement solutions
Groups seek solution to food problem
DA: High spending key to hiking harvest
People’s Food Summit Declares: Hunger is Governance Crisis!
Monday, March 31, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY - People’s Food Summit
Urban Rural Poor in Solidarity
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
People’s Food Summit
Leaders of various industry associations, fisherfolks, labor, academe, youth, professionals, religious and civil society groups will join hands with farmer-producers and urban poor consumers in calling for action to avert the food crisis at a People’s Food Summit to be held on April 2, 2008, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the UP-SOLAIR Auditorium, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City.
The summit will present to the public a People’s Declaration on the Emerging Food Crisis. Its call is: Affordable, Accessible and Adequate Food for All!
The People’s Summit is intended to coincide with the government’s food summit to be held April 4. It represents the thinking of the groups that will be most affected by the crisis.
We hope to meet you there.
Photo ops: All present will sign a large copy of the People’s Declaration.
Date : April 2, 2008 (Wednesday) / 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Venue: UP-SOLAIR Auditorium, U.P. - Diliman, Q.C.
Co-sponsored by the Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition, Urban Poor Alliance, Pambansang Ugnayan ng mga Nagkakaisang Organisasyon sa Kanayunan, Kilusang Mangingisda, KAMMMPI, Mamamayan para sa Pagpapaunlad at Pagpapanatili ng Lawa ng Laguna, Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise Foundation, Urban Poor Associates, Community Organizers Multiversity, Zone One Tondo Organization, Kongreso ng Pagkakaisa ng Maralita ng Lunsod, PHILSSA, Partnership for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development Services, R-10 Navotas Alliance, Ugnayang Lakas ng mga Apektadong Pamilya sa Baybaying Ilog Pasig, Kabalikat-BASECO, SAPAR-South Rail, Manila Estero Informal Settlers Alliance, Samahan ng taga Estero Pasay, Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Batilyo-Navotas, Malabon Brgy. Volunteers Assoc., Fair Trade Alliance, Women Health, Stop Laiban Dam Coalition, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Haydee Yorac Movement, PADAYON, Partido Manggagawa, Peace Foundation Inc., KABABAIHAN Pilipinas, SANLAKAS, FoodFirst Information and Action Network, MFDC,PEACE Foundation, Alliance of Rural Concerns
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
People’s Food Summit
Leaders of various industry associations, fisherfolks, labor, academe, youth, professionals, religious and civil society groups will join hands with farmer-producers and urban poor consumers in calling for action to avert the food crisis at a People’s Food Summit to be held on April 2, 2008, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the UP-SOLAIR Auditorium, University of the Philippines-Diliman, Quezon City.
The summit will present to the public a People’s Declaration on the Emerging Food Crisis. Its call is: Affordable, Accessible and Adequate Food for All!
The People’s Summit is intended to coincide with the government’s food summit to be held April 4. It represents the thinking of the groups that will be most affected by the crisis.
We hope to meet you there.
Photo ops: All present will sign a large copy of the People’s Declaration.
Date : April 2, 2008 (Wednesday) / 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Venue: UP-SOLAIR Auditorium, U.P. - Diliman, Q.C.
Co-sponsored by the Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition, Urban Poor Alliance, Pambansang Ugnayan ng mga Nagkakaisang Organisasyon sa Kanayunan, Kilusang Mangingisda, KAMMMPI, Mamamayan para sa Pagpapaunlad at Pagpapanatili ng Lawa ng Laguna, Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise Foundation, Urban Poor Associates, Community Organizers Multiversity, Zone One Tondo Organization, Kongreso ng Pagkakaisa ng Maralita ng Lunsod, PHILSSA, Partnership for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development Services, R-10 Navotas Alliance, Ugnayang Lakas ng mga Apektadong Pamilya sa Baybaying Ilog Pasig, Kabalikat-BASECO, SAPAR-South Rail, Manila Estero Informal Settlers Alliance, Samahan ng taga Estero Pasay, Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Batilyo-Navotas, Malabon Brgy. Volunteers Assoc., Fair Trade Alliance, Women Health, Stop Laiban Dam Coalition, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Haydee Yorac Movement, PADAYON, Partido Manggagawa, Peace Foundation Inc., KABABAIHAN Pilipinas, SANLAKAS, FoodFirst Information and Action Network, MFDC,PEACE Foundation, Alliance of Rural Concerns
Friday, March 28, 2008
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Media Advisory : People’s Forum on Hunger
Urban Rural Poor Solidarity
c/o Urban Poor Associates
25A Mabuhay Street, Brgy. Central, Quezon City 1100, Philippines
Tels. (+632) 426-4119 – 426-7615 Telefax (+632) 426-4118
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
People’s Forum on Hunger
It is our pleasure to invite you to attend the People’s Forum on Hunger to be held on March 28, 2008 (Friday), 9:00am to 5:00pm at the Conrado Benitez Hall, Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) Building. PRRM is located at 56 Mother Ignacia Avenue corner Dr. Lazcano Street, Quezon City.
The forum is a synthesis of sectoral workshops on situations and recommendations as well as policy proposals to address the emerging food crisis.
Photo ops: Provided by farmers, fisherfolk, urban poor, labor and women’s groups.
P R O G R A M
9:00am - 9:05am Welcome Remarks
9:05am - 9:10am Overview & Objective of the Forum
9:10am - 9:40am Topic: Food Security Challenge the Global Perspective
9:40am - 10:10am Topic: Political Economy of the Philippines on Food Crisis
10:10am - 10:40am Topic : Critique of the Gov’t Hunger Mitigation Program
10:40am - 11:00am Break
11:00am - 12:00nn Panel of Reactor
12:00nn - 12:30pm Open Forum
12:30pm - 1:30pm Lunch Break
1:30pm - 3:30pm Group Discussion
3:30pm - 5:00pm Plenary Report
Synthesis /Closing Remarks
c/o Urban Poor Associates
25A Mabuhay Street, Brgy. Central, Quezon City 1100, Philippines
Tels. (+632) 426-4119 – 426-7615 Telefax (+632) 426-4118
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
People’s Forum on Hunger
It is our pleasure to invite you to attend the People’s Forum on Hunger to be held on March 28, 2008 (Friday), 9:00am to 5:00pm at the Conrado Benitez Hall, Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) Building. PRRM is located at 56 Mother Ignacia Avenue corner Dr. Lazcano Street, Quezon City.
The forum is a synthesis of sectoral workshops on situations and recommendations as well as policy proposals to address the emerging food crisis.
Photo ops: Provided by farmers, fisherfolk, urban poor, labor and women’s groups.
P R O G R A M
9:00am - 9:05am Welcome Remarks
9:05am - 9:10am Overview & Objective of the Forum
9:10am - 9:40am Topic: Food Security Challenge the Global Perspective
9:40am - 10:10am Topic: Political Economy of the Philippines on Food Crisis
10:10am - 10:40am Topic : Critique of the Gov’t Hunger Mitigation Program
10:40am - 11:00am Break
11:00am - 12:00nn Panel of Reactor
12:00nn - 12:30pm Open Forum
12:30pm - 1:30pm Lunch Break
1:30pm - 3:30pm Group Discussion
3:30pm - 5:00pm Plenary Report
Synthesis /Closing Remarks
Monday, March 17, 2008
Kalbaryo ng Maralita 2008 - Statement of the Poor
KALBARYO NG MARALITA 2008
March 18, 2008
STATEMENT OF THE POOR
Our Kalbaryo of the Urban and Rural Poor reminds all Filipinos that the sufferings of Jesus in His Passion and Death are repeated today in the poor. That is the message of the Kalbaryo. “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers you do unto me,” Jesus tells us in Matthew’s Gospel (Mt 25), where He is speaking of the hungry, homeless and persecuted.
The sufferings of Jesus were, as we know, scourging, crucifixion, carrying of the cross, a crown of thorns and a very painful death. Along the way he was mocked and insulted. The sufferings of the poor are: evictions, homelessness, hunger, landlessness, injustice, joblessness, lack of dignity and powerlessness. In God’s eyes they are one.
The poor will join with all who are willing to struggle to end corruption. We have more reason to do so than anyone else. In our country it is possible to trace a direct connection between the sins of the powerful and the sufferings of the poor. Corruption is the cause of hunger. The $130 million said to have gone to “commissions” and kickbacks in the ZTE/NBN affair could have doubled the food budget of our 25,000 Baseco and Parola poor families for three years.
Now they have P100/a day for food for a family of five. Barely enough to survive day to day. If they had the $130 million stolen by the corrupt they would have P200/a day for three years, which is enough for some rice, meat, fish, eggs, milk and healthy children.
We will work with all who want to share the wealth of the Philippines that God has given us among all His children and not just the powerful and well off.
We hope to unite among ourselves, urban and rural, fisherfolk, indigenous persons, and in a non-violent, democratic manner build a society of justice and prosperity for all. And in this way we hope to build the Church of the poor.
We ask for the cooperation of all groups in society who are so committed. We especially want the support of the Church and its cooperation. The Church has been our most dependable ally.
We believe there can be no solution to the country’s problems unless the poor, who are at least 50% of the population, are involved in the reform process. Can a patient be cured without his or her knowledge and cooperation?
The poor must be involved in all the phases of reform – in the planning, in the implementation and in the enjoyment of the good results of reform.
We thank everyone for coming. God bless us all.
URBAN and RURAL POOR SOLIDARITY
Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition, Urban Poor Alliance, Pambansang Ugnayan ng mga Nagkakaisang Organisasyon sa Kanayunan, Sumilao Farmers, Task Force Mapalad, Kilusang Mangingisda, KAMMMPI, Mamamayan para sa Pagpapaunlad at Pagpapanatili ng Lawa ng Laguna, Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise Foundation, Urban Poor Associates, Community Organizers Multiversity, PHILSSA, PARRDS, R-10 Navotas Alliance, ULAP, Kabalikat-BASECO, SAPAR-South Rail, Manila Estero Informal Settlers Alliance, Samahan ng taga Estero Pasay, Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Batilyo-Navotas, Malabon Brgy. Volunteers Asso., NLU-KAAKBAY, NLU-FTA, AIWA/PMA, Women Health, Stop Laiban Dam Coalition, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Haydee Yorac Movement, PADAYON, Partido Manggagawa
Some Issues of the Poor:
Urban Poor
· No Eviction without decent relocation
· Upgrade all proclaimed areas
· Increase fund and improve administration of the Community Mortgage Program and the Social Housing Finance Corporation
Rural Poor
· Extend coverage of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program for another 10 years
· Harmonize land rights of farmers and indigenous people’s rights of ancestral domain
· Protect municipal fishers from trawlers
· Protect subsistent fishers and increase their incomes
· Give justice to Sumilao and Hacienda Yulo farmers
· Oppose large scale mining that harms the environment or violate rights of indigenous communities.
March 18, 2008
STATEMENT OF THE POOR
Our Kalbaryo of the Urban and Rural Poor reminds all Filipinos that the sufferings of Jesus in His Passion and Death are repeated today in the poor. That is the message of the Kalbaryo. “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers you do unto me,” Jesus tells us in Matthew’s Gospel (Mt 25), where He is speaking of the hungry, homeless and persecuted.
The sufferings of Jesus were, as we know, scourging, crucifixion, carrying of the cross, a crown of thorns and a very painful death. Along the way he was mocked and insulted. The sufferings of the poor are: evictions, homelessness, hunger, landlessness, injustice, joblessness, lack of dignity and powerlessness. In God’s eyes they are one.
The poor will join with all who are willing to struggle to end corruption. We have more reason to do so than anyone else. In our country it is possible to trace a direct connection between the sins of the powerful and the sufferings of the poor. Corruption is the cause of hunger. The $130 million said to have gone to “commissions” and kickbacks in the ZTE/NBN affair could have doubled the food budget of our 25,000 Baseco and Parola poor families for three years.
Now they have P100/a day for food for a family of five. Barely enough to survive day to day. If they had the $130 million stolen by the corrupt they would have P200/a day for three years, which is enough for some rice, meat, fish, eggs, milk and healthy children.
We will work with all who want to share the wealth of the Philippines that God has given us among all His children and not just the powerful and well off.
We hope to unite among ourselves, urban and rural, fisherfolk, indigenous persons, and in a non-violent, democratic manner build a society of justice and prosperity for all. And in this way we hope to build the Church of the poor.
We ask for the cooperation of all groups in society who are so committed. We especially want the support of the Church and its cooperation. The Church has been our most dependable ally.
We believe there can be no solution to the country’s problems unless the poor, who are at least 50% of the population, are involved in the reform process. Can a patient be cured without his or her knowledge and cooperation?
The poor must be involved in all the phases of reform – in the planning, in the implementation and in the enjoyment of the good results of reform.
We thank everyone for coming. God bless us all.
URBAN and RURAL POOR SOLIDARITY
Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition, Urban Poor Alliance, Pambansang Ugnayan ng mga Nagkakaisang Organisasyon sa Kanayunan, Sumilao Farmers, Task Force Mapalad, Kilusang Mangingisda, KAMMMPI, Mamamayan para sa Pagpapaunlad at Pagpapanatili ng Lawa ng Laguna, Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise Foundation, Urban Poor Associates, Community Organizers Multiversity, PHILSSA, PARRDS, R-10 Navotas Alliance, ULAP, Kabalikat-BASECO, SAPAR-South Rail, Manila Estero Informal Settlers Alliance, Samahan ng taga Estero Pasay, Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Batilyo-Navotas, Malabon Brgy. Volunteers Asso., NLU-KAAKBAY, NLU-FTA, AIWA/PMA, Women Health, Stop Laiban Dam Coalition, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Haydee Yorac Movement, PADAYON, Partido Manggagawa
Some Issues of the Poor:
Urban Poor
· No Eviction without decent relocation
· Upgrade all proclaimed areas
· Increase fund and improve administration of the Community Mortgage Program and the Social Housing Finance Corporation
Rural Poor
· Extend coverage of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program for another 10 years
· Harmonize land rights of farmers and indigenous people’s rights of ancestral domain
· Protect municipal fishers from trawlers
· Protect subsistent fishers and increase their incomes
· Give justice to Sumilao and Hacienda Yulo farmers
· Oppose large scale mining that harms the environment or violate rights of indigenous communities.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORY: KALBARYO NG MARALITA 2008
Attention: News Editor, News Desk, Reporters and Photojournalists
MEDIA ADVISORY
KALBARYO NG MARALITA 2008
KATOTOHANAN KATARUNGAN PANANAGUTAN PAGBABAGO
In observance of the Holy Week, the urban poor are celebrating their annual “Kalbaryo ng Maralita” on March 18 (Tuesday) and this year it is done in partnership with farmers, fisherfolks, indigenous people, formal and informal labor groups.
The Kalbaryo reminds Philippine society that the suffering of Jesus in His Passion and death are repeated today in the suffering imposed on the poor by forced evictions, homelessness, hunger, landlessness, injustice, joblessness, lack of dignity and powerlessness. “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers you do unto me” (Mt. 25)
The Kalbaryo will begin at the Philippine National Railway (PNR) España Station (just South of España Ave.) and end with Mass at San Sebastian Church with Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Caloocan Bishop Deogracias Iñiguez and priests at about 12:00 noon.
Over 1,200 poor people from different parts of Metro Manila and farmers, including those from Sumilao, Bukidnon and the Yulo estate in Laguna will gather at the railroad station at 8:00 AM and march towards Loreto Church, Mendiola and San Sebastian Church, following the traditional stations as they go.
The Kalbaryo will begin on the railroad tracks to remind everyone over 100,000 families have been or will be evicted from the railroad right of way from Clark Field to Calamba to prepare for the Northrail and Southrail Projects. Many have not received decent relocation.
Urban poor issues are contained in the CBCP Pastoral Statement on Homelessness of January 2007, namely, forced evictions, upgrading of urban poor areas and funding for Community Mortgage Program and other programs that help the urban poor. Farmer issues include continuation of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) with reforms, and justice in special cases, for example, Sumilao and Hacienda Yulo.
Photo ops: The procession will be led by 7 men bearing the crosses of the poor families. There will be photo ops at the Stations of the Cross along the way.
Date: March 18, 2008 (Tuesday)
Time: Gather at 8:00 AM
Assembly point: Philippine National Railway (PNR) Station, España Avenue
URBAN and RURAL POOR SOLIDARITY
Task Force Anti-Illegal Demolition, Urban Poor Alliance, Pambansang Ugnayan ng mga Nagkakaisang Organisasyon sa Kanayunan, Sumilao Farmers, Task Force Mapalad, Kilusang Mangingisda, KAMMMPI, Mamamayan para sa Pagpapaunlad at Pagpapanatili ng Lawa ng Laguna, Community Organization of the Philippine Enterprise Foundation, Urban Poor Associates, Community Organizers Multiversity, PHILSSA, PARRDS, R-10 Navotas Alliance, ULAP, Kabalikat-BASECO, SAPAR-South Rail, Manila Estero Informal Settlers Alliance, Samahan ng taga Estero Pasay, Samahan ng Nagkakaisang Batilyo-Navotas, Malabon Brgy. Volunteers Asso., NLU-KAAKBAY, NLU-FTA, AIWA/PMA, Women Health, Stop Laiban Dam Coalition, Freedom from Debt Coalition, Haydee Yorac Movement, PADAYON, Partido Manggagawa
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Scores hurt in Quezon City demolition
03/05/2008 | 12:02 PM
MMDA starts demolition of market near Philcoa
03/05/2008 | 10:33 AM
Demolition at market turns violent
03/05/2008 | 07:21 PM
Portion of Philcoa Market demolished Wednesday
03/05/2008 | 07:39 AM
Scores hurt in Quezon City demolition
Five hurt in violent MMDA demolition in QC
18 hurt in Quezon City market demolition
MMDA starts demolition of market near Philcoa
03/05/2008 | 10:33 AM
Demolition at market turns violent
03/05/2008 | 07:21 PM
Portion of Philcoa Market demolished Wednesday
03/05/2008 | 07:39 AM
Scores hurt in Quezon City demolition
Five hurt in violent MMDA demolition in QC
18 hurt in Quezon City market demolition
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