The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is examining the legality of Xavier University's P20-billion ‘Campus of the Future’ project in Cagayan de Oro City. The investigation stems from allegations that the development violates the terms of the land title, which dates back to the Commonwealth era.
Land Title Restrictions Under Scrutiny
The property specifically provides for the grant of sale or lease to educational, charitable or religious entities only.
Jerome Pioquinto, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer
- Project sits on 64 hectares of land originally designated for educational use.
- Development partners include Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI).
Jerome Pioquinto, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer, issued a notice on May 11, indicating that the land, tied to Sales Patent No. V-2476, restricts its use to educational purposes. The university and CLI have 15 days to justify the mixed-use project combining academic and commercial spaces.
In a joint statement, XU and CLI expressed confidence in the legality of their title, asserting they have maintained ownership for nearly seven decades. They argue that all administrative restrictions expired in 1968 and that their investments are safeguarded under the Torrens title system, a strong legal framework for land ownership in the Philippines.
Project director Engineer Lennie Ong emphasized their commitment to addressing all legal inquiries, stating, "As good corporate citizens, we will answer any legal inquiries about the project."
The development of the Manresa property aims to fund campus expansions for Xavier University. However, a group called Concerned Parents and Teachers Against the XU Campus Sale has emerged, opposing the project and citing concerns over the historical significance of the land, which includes the SEARSOLIN agricultural research facility.
This investigation highlights the ongoing tension between educational institutions looking to expand and community stakeholders who prioritize historical and environmental considerations. The outcome could set a significant precedent for future developments tied to historical land use restrictions.