• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Despite the continuous effort to close down an abandoned building in 4th Lacson Street in Bacolod City the “children and family in street situations” are still regaining access to the property.
The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga said they are coordinating with the City Legal Office and Mayor’s Office for the appropriate intervention, as the property is privately owned.
According to Verdeprado-Mangga, they have sent letters to the owner explaining the situation since December last year.
The owner, reportedly of a shopping mall chain as well, expressed that they already constructed walls multiple times to prevent further entry and use of the property, however, street dwellers who have been staying there, tore down the wall.
The DSSD Anti-mendicancy task force visited the place where they rescued street children, and referred them to various social welfare agencies and NGOs.
Yet, the struggle remains as the second floor of the dilapidated building has also been occupied, with dwellers even managing to get their own water supply.
In an interview, the DSSD said that they were able to make a father and son leave the property during their visit with the police, however, the pair returned the following week.
Three families have been identified as living in the property, while the rest grew up in the area.
“We always highlight that it should not be a place for children who are supposed to be in school and being taken care of in their own home,” Verdeprado-Mangga said.
The DSSD expressed concern over the property, as it is becoming a den to unlawful activities.*
