• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), is scheduled to release financial assistance to 37 informal settler families currently residing along Mambuloc Creek in Purok Balinday, Barangay 2, Bacolod City.
DSSD Head Dr. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga said each affected family will receive P10,000 to aid their relocation as the city government prepares to demolish structures situated in high-risk danger zones.
The City Legal Officer Atty. Karol Joseph Chiu earlier stated that they set a deadline of January 15 for the residents to vacate the area.
Mangga confirmed that the 37 families were identified through social preparation interviews to ensure they receive the necessary support during the transfer.
“The authorities did not report any untoward incidents during the serving of notices and public assembly to the residents, as each agency performed its task as early as possible to distribute the notices,” Mangga said.
The Bacolod City government said that the clearing of the creek is essential for public safety, as the structures currently block water flow and pose a significant risk to residents due to potential overflow from the ongoing dredging of the nearby Banago River.*
