“THE unauthorized occupation of portions of lots 771 represents a clear violation of property rights and undermines the legal authority of the provincial government over its assets,” thus said provincial Board Member Nathaniel O. Binlod (3rd district) in his privilege speech recently.
He said that he brought this to the attention of his colleagues in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to strike a balance between the authority of the provincial government and rights of the occupants.
“This situation presents a challenge that requires our immediate and thoughtful intervention. On one hand, we must uphold the legal and proprietary rights of the provincial government. On the other hand, we cannot overlook the human aspect of this issue—the lives and homes of the people currently residing on these lots.”
Lot No. 771 is the one fronting the Land Transportation Office and the Civil Service Commission with a total area of 2,674 square meters, situated in barangay Dao, Tagbilaran City.
“These parcels of land are the rightful property of the Provincial Government of Bohol. However, these parcels of land are currently occupied by individuals and families who do not possess the necessary legal documentation to reside and construct structures, business enterprises and commercial spaces on these lots,” he said
He said that some more or less 41 occupants in these areas. “For a long time, these individuals have resided here without proper documentation. As a result, these dwellers are technically in violation of property laws, creating a precarious living situation where they could be displaced at any time.”
It was learned that the occupants of said lot are being allowed by past administrations and they are made to pay a monthly rent. But reports also said that owners of these houses allowed others to board for a fee or rent allegedly without permission from the provincial government as the owner.
The matter is being referred to the ways/means Committee along with government properties committee for study and recommendation. (rvo)
