With the support of the police, the Bambang Land Corporation (BLC) demolition team violently destroyed several homes on April 14 in Purok 6B, Barangay Bambang in Los Baños, Laguna. Demolition is set to continue until April 16.
On the day of the demolition, residents held dialogue with the company, which claimed BLC agents would only conduct surveys. Upon entering the community, the demolition team suddenly started destroying homes.
The demolition was implemented under a Writ of Demolition issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 35, ordering destruction of over 70 homes in the community after the court favored BLC. Residents pleaded postponing the demolition of their houses so they could prepare their departure.
Residents first received the demolition notice on March 11, giving them 20 days to leave the place. Residents immediately installed barricades and protested at the Los Baños City Hall to denounce the imminent demolition.
Residents have lived in Purok 6B for six decades. Under Proclamation No. 550 in 2004, the state recognized their land rights where their houses stand.
The local government washes its hands of the community’s problem. Some Purok 6B residents met Mayor Neil Andrew Nocon in his office on April 14. He said the LGU can do nothing because it is a court decision. He claim not knowing of such a problem and the local government has no budget for aid or relocation for residents.
Residents assert the demolition method is illegal. They say the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992 requires consultation, proper notice, and relocation if necessary. In addition, the Local Government Code of 1991 obligates the local government to protect citizens’ welfare.
