Soldiers slam demolition order issued by BCDA

MANILA, Philippines - Retired and active soldiers residing in Consular Area in Bonifacio South, Taguig City yesterday denounced the eviction and demolition order issued by Bases and Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) president Arnel Casanova.

In a letter to Casanova dated July 25, the Consular Area Residents Association Inc. led by retired Col. Benjamin V. Zabat warned Casanova of the legal consequences should he proceed to demolish their houses.

Zabat said the land where their houses are built is not part of the BCDA’s jurisdiction since the property belongs to the Diplomatic and Consular Area.

On July 20, the BCDA issued a notice informing the soldiers that their houses would be demolished.

Zabat added that Casanova has no authority to issue demolition orders.

He noted that under Section 9 of Republic Act 7227, the BCDA chairman shall act as its concurrent president.

Zabat said the planned demolition of the structures owned by the soldiers, retired veterans and their families is contrary to the purposes sought to be served by the BCDA and RA 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act of 1992.

Lawyer Howard Calleja, counsel for the residents of the Consular Area, warned Casanova that they would take legal action against him if he proceeds with the demolition.

Calleja had earlier asked President Aquino to oust Casanova for unlawfully exercising powers that belong to the BCDA president.

“As the prime mover of good governance, I write to your good office to inform you that one of the presidential appointees and as confirmed by Commission of Appointments is under serious legal question and I appeal to you to revoke such appointment,” Calleja told the President.