NHA eyes demolition of Manila, Taguig tenements

The National Housing Authority (NHA) planned to demolish three tenements in Metro Manila, GMA News TV program "State of the Nation with Jessica Soho" reported on Monday.

To be demolished were the Punta Tenement in Sta. Ana, Manila; Vitas Temporary Housing in Vitas Tondo, Manila; and the Fort Bonifacio Tenement Housing Unit in Taguig City, all of which had been "condemned."

"It's better for us to take a preemptive action bago pa mangyari 'yung malaking sakuna," said NHA Chief of Staff Attorney John Christopher Mahamud,

Punta Tenement residents were meanwhile surprised with the NHA's decision.

"Gusto nga namin ma-test, ma-assess ulit para malaman namin talaga status ng building. 'Di 'yung, sila, tapos na sila magevaluate... dapat testingin nila ulit," urged Eduardo Igoy, president of the Punta Tenement Resident's Association.

Residents further argued that demolishing the building was unnecessary.

"Dito ako nag-elementary, nag-high school. Dito na ko nagka-anak, dito na ko nagka-apo. Napakatibay pa ho nitong tenement. Ang gusto lang ho namin rehabilitation," said Salvador Abella.

The Manila city government had also filed a demolition order for the Vitas Temporary Housing facility.

"Meron nang projected date. But we have to respect nga the due process of law," explained Ma. Teresa Oblipias of the NHA Damo, Southeast Sectors.

"We really have to undertake voluntary relocation because our concern here is safety of occupants," added Luz Evangelista, officer-in-charge of the NHA West Sector. — Anna Felicia Bajo/DVM, GMA News