Davao task force clears UP-Mindanao of informal settlers

DAVAO CITY – A joint task force composed of police, the military, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Central 911 implemented a demolition order from the city government on 15 informal settlers inside the sprawling 20-hectare University of the Philippines-Mindanao campus in Bago Oshiro, Tugbok District, on Thursday.

Except for the 80-year-old elderly who refused to leave her house, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Director, Col. Alexander Tagum, said there was no resistance from the homeowners.

Task force members had to take the elderly out of the house and brought her to the barangay health center.

“She became hysterical after seeing the demolition of the houses,” Tagum added. "Other than that, there was no resistance from the people."

Tagum said he was told that the owners already left the night before, knowing that the demolition would be taking place the next day.

He said the clearing of the area will pave the way for the University and the city government to further develop the land, which is part of an ongoing sports complex construction.

A joint project by UP and the local government, the sports complex is touted to be of world-class standard. So far, construction has already completed the training gym and the multipurpose building for the football field and track oval.

Ongoing construction works include the Aquatics Center, featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a diving pool, and spaces required by the Fédération Internationale de Natation which is recognized by the International Olympic Committee for organizing international competition in water sports.

The sports complex is targeted for completion next month in time for the Palarong Pambansa. (PNA)