Salinas sidewalks to be cleared soon

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Public Works and Highways has already issued notices to owners of structures along Salinas Drive in Barangay Lahug ahead of the planned construction of sidewalks in that place.

DPWH Cebu City District Engineer Nicomedes Leonor addressed his letter dated February 19 to Portia Baquita, the acknowledged leader of the concerned residents, informing her that she and her neighbors have violated the provisions of the National Building Code by encroaching on areas intended for sidewalks.

Baquita immediately asked her neighbors to sign a letter request asking Cebu City Councilor Alvin Dizon to help them postpone the demolition of their houses for a few months.

In last Wednesday’s session of the City Council, the city legislators decided to refer the matter to the DPWH for further action, however, the City Council did not ask for the postponement of any clearing operation.

Some persons who frequently pass by the place, like those working in different establishments in IT Park, were happy to learn of the government’s plan to expand the houses from the supposed sidewalk.

“Ang agianan namo nga mga taxpayers gi-occupy naman sa mga carenderia atbang sa TESDA.  Almost if not all employees working in companies within IT Park are asking our officials to provide safe pathway in that area,” said a certain Carmel.

Carmel said she became concerned after seeing a woman and a child nearly get hit by a speeding motorcycle.

“Kay ari na man intawon mi manubay sa para sakyanan,” she said.

“I feel for the store owners because operating carenderias is their source of income, but it is already too much that they extend their stores and tables to the road,” she added.

Mayor Michael Rama had already announced that he will request the Capitol and TESDA officials to give a space for the construction of sidewalks on both sides of Salinas Drive for the safety of the pedestrians.

Rama said he is aware of the problem of the pedestrians who are frequently passing along Salinas Drive that is why he is happy to learn that DPWH took the initiative to solve the problem.  (FREEMAN)