17/11/2020
Davao City Councilor passes resolution to halt all demolition activities during the Covid-19 pandemic
On November 17, 2020, Councilor Pamela Librado proposed a resolution that reiterated Davao City's "No Relocation, No Demolition" policy, particularly during a state of national health emergency. The said resolution was passed for first reading in the City Council today (November 17).
The resolution to reiterate the City's "No relocation, no demolition" policy came at the heels of a recent demolition in Barangay 74-A on November 4, 2020. Almost a hundred houses were demolished in a compound located at Diversion Road, Barangay 74-A. Councilor Librado pointed out that this "No relocation, no demolition" policy has been a long-standing policy in the City, which further needs to be highlighted during this time. She also added that the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has already issued Memorandum Circular 2020-068, which directs all LGUs to postpone all demolition and eviction activities during a state of national emergency.
"As we face a pandemic where we strictly impose health protocols and encourage people to stay home, demolition of houses is inhumane. Housing is supposed to be a basic right that must be enjoyed by every family. No one should be deprived of this right, especially during a pandemic. Demolitions during this time run contrary to our advocacy that people should stay home and postpone non-essential movement," Councilor Pamela Librado said.
She added that "we are supposed to be helping each other in this pandemic. Isn't it ironic that demolitions happen even in this most difficult time? Aside from the issue of proper relocation, we should exercise utmost compassion and consideration for each other as we collectively confront the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Dili unta ta magbiniyaay."
The resolution initiated by the Office of Councilor Pamela Librado is entitled "A Resolution Reiterating the No Relocation, No Demolition Policy, Urging the Halt of All Demolition and Eviction Activities and Providing Interim Shelter Facilities for Homeless Citizens During the State of National Health Emergency."