Hearing on proposed law changes urged

CEBU, Philippines - Members of the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board want the House of Representatives to conduct a public hearing in Cebu on the proposed amendments of the law on acquiring a right-of-way, site or location for national government infrastructure.

During MCDCB’s full council meeting yesterday, Sitoy manifested that there are issues and concerns on the proposed amendments that need further discussion.

Congressmen Ronalad Casalan and Jesulito Manalo cited the need to amend Republic Act 8974 or the Act to Facilitate the Acquisition of Right-of-Way sites, or location for national government infrastructure, appropriating funds therefor, and for other purposes.

House Bill 2994 proposes amendments to fast tract the acquisition of lots intended for government projects, including national government infrastructure and its public service facilities, engineering works and service contracts, including projects undertaken by government-owned and controlled corporation.

Also covered are projects covered by Republic Act 6957, as amended by Republic Act No. 7718, or the Build-Operate and Transfer-Law and other related and necessary activities such as acquisition, supply and or installation of equipment and materials, implementation, construction, completion and operation.

The expropriation, the proposal said, shall be considered a preferential mode of acquiring real property needed as right-of-way site or location for any government infrastructure project.

The proposed amendments also stated that the government through the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council and the National Housing Authority, in coordination with the Local Government Unit and implementing agencies concerned, shall establish and develop resettlement site for informal settlers, including the provisions of adequate basic services and community facilities. — (FREEMAN)