THE impasse in Sitio Russia in Bonuan Binloc is expected to end soon after a cordial dialogue between the city government and the settlers, aided by their respective lawyers, at the office of Mayor Alipio Fernandez Jr. last September 30.

According to City Legal Officer George Mejia, only formalities to document the amicable settlement need to be accomplished to pave the way finally for the groundbreaking of the proposed P100 million Seafood Processing Plant.

After the dialogue, Mayor Fernandez expressed optimism that a final agreement will soon be signed after October 20, the day the parties are scheduled to meet for a hearing at the sala of Regional Trial Court Judge Genoveva Maramba of Branch 44 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a second ocular inspection to the proposed relocation site in Sitio Bagong Baryo, Bonuan Binloc.

Residents of Sitio Russia were represented by their new lawyer, Atty. Alan Paguia, who was tapped by Archbishop Oscar Cruz to protect the rights of the settlers in their negotiation with the city government.

Judge Maramba attended the dialogue but only as observer.

In that dialogue, Fernandez said the city government is about to sign a usufruct agreement win the Department of Environment and Natural Resources over three-hectare area in Sitio Bagong Baryo and once signed it can be occupied by residents for as long as they want but with one exception – the land cannot be titled and the occupant cannot sell it.

Among the promised benefits for the relocation include support for livelihood projects.

Mejia said as agreed upon, only 65 of the residents of Sitio Russia would be relocated to Sitio Bagong Baryo and all the other infrastructures there, like vacation and rest houses, video and recreation houses, piggery, poultry, garage and others owned by rich people would be demolished.

Fr. Oliver Mendoza, representing Archbishop Cruz, said “Hopefully something good will come out soon”, he said.

For his part, Atty. Paguia told newsmen the peaceful dialogue only proved that the people of Sitio Russia are reasonable and are prepared to cooperate while ensuring the protection of their rights.

Paguia suggested a new ocular inspection for him to ascertain if the site can accommodate 65 families as promised.

“Pag napansin ninyo, may complaint sa korte at may answer pero hindi na pinag-uusapan ang complaint at answer. Mas gusto nila (parties) na ang pagusapan nila ay relocation,” Paguia said.

Atty. Anita Chau-an, director of the Commission on Human Rights, said the relocation site is acceptable and that the residents will be given support. –LM

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