An urban poor group in Rizal exposed the threats, harassment, and eviction of residents in Sitio Pugadlawin, Barangay San Juan, Taytay. According to reports received by the Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay)-Rizal, residents have been barred from entering their community after another party claimed ownership of their land.

On January 29, about 36 guards from Sapian Star Security Agency entered and took posts in various parts of the community without explanation. Residents said the guards refused to identify themselves and immediately destroyed the community gate.

Residents also reported that the guards fenced off the area, heightening fears of an imminent demolition. They said the guards could not present legitimate land titles or documents, not even the boundaries of the area they plan to fence or cover.

In response, Kadamay-Rizal called for urgent monitoring and support from human rights groups, media, lawyers, and the legal profession. The group urged the public to stand with Sitio Pugadlawin in defending their right to housing and due process.

Pattern of demolitions in Taytay

Communities across Taytay face repeated demolition threats. These included Baltao Corporation workers forcibly closing the passageway used by residents of Sitio Igiban, Barangay San Isidro, starting January 7, affecting around 60 families.

Other communities under threat of demolition include Siwang, Sapang Gody, Bato-bato, Batong Dalig, Halaman Uno, Halaman Dos, and PCSO. Residents of these areas have no access to water and electricity because of the landlords’ suppresion and land-grabbing.

According to an earlier statement by the Taytay Urban Poor Alliance (TUPA), the waves of demolitions prove the state’s siding with private companies’ interests instead of upholding the poor’s right to housing.