De Lima urges for probe into relocations
SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA has filed a resolution calling for an inquiry into the possible displacement of families in Metro Manila from the two construction projects under the government’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ infrastructure program.
Senate Resolution No. 927, filed on Oct. 30, urges the appropriate Senate committee to look into the impending displacement of around 180,000 families due to the P23 billion North Luzon ExpresswaySouth Luzon Expressway (NLEx-SLEx) Connector Road Project and the P171 billion North-South Commuter Railway project.
“Mega-infrastructure projects such as these rarely, if at all, mention the social costs of these endeavors, particularly the physical and economic displacement of thousands of people just to give way for their construction in Metro Manila’s densely populated area,” the senator said in a statement on Sunday. Ms. De Lima said the two construction projects will result in the demolition of houses in at least 38 barangays in Metro Manila, including those housing small businesses. Thousands are reportedly to be relocated in inaccessible sites, she added.
She also warned that improper displacement and relocation would worsen economic and social problems. Some residents in Sampaloc, Manila have alleged lack of consultation in right-of-way negotiations, according to the senator. —