Published on 10 August 2012 [ manilatimes.net ]
Written by Lovelyn Quintos
The Bases Conversion and Development
Authority (BCDA) on Thursday reiterated its rights over the contested Jusmag
Area at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC), saying it would push through with the
proposed development plans there.
In a statement, BCDA said that it has
“clear and unmistakable rights” over the 34.5 hectare Jusmag property formerly
occupied by informal settlers and is subject for demolition.
“In Republic vs. Southside Homeowners
Association Inc. [SHAI] [G.R.156591], the Supreme Court declared the area
covered by the SHAI’s Transfer Certificate of Titles as part of the Fort
Bonifacio Military Reservation. The SC further cancelled the title registered
in the name of SHAI, thus restoring the Republic, and eventually BCDA, to what
rightfully belongs to it in law and in fact,” BCDA said.
Some retired and active military
personnel residing in the nearby Consular Area were alarmed that their residences
will be covered by the dismantling procedures. BCDA President and Chief
Executive Officer Arnel Casanova, however, clarified that only the Jusmag Area
is being cleared by the BCDA following a Certificate of Compliance on
Demolition issued by the city of Taguig on July 18.
Although many of the informal settlers
previously occupying the area have availed of the government’s relocation
program, Casanova said that some informal settlers remain in the area. He added
the structures would be lawfully dismantled so the project can proceed.
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