A private demolition operation has left more than 20 families in Mandaue City without homes, raising serious concerns regarding its legality.
The demolition at Sitio Marna, Barangay Subangdaku, began on June 24 and continued despite residents' protests.
Legal Concerns Surrounding Demolition
That is why we at HUDO are saying the demolition should stop because you have no legal basis to demolish houses and evict people.
Ramelito Inopiquez, HUDO Executive Assistant
According to the Mandaue City Housing and Urban Development Office (HUDO), the demolition crew lacked a valid writ of demolition and was not accompanied by a court sheriff, as required by law.
- Demolition began on June 24, 2026.
- Over 20 homes were demolished.
- Residents allege they were given under an hour to vacate.
Affected families reported being caught off guard when the demolition team arrived, with some claiming they were given less than an hour to gather their belongings.
HUDO's Inopiquez emphasized that the demolition should be halted until its legality is confirmed, following a verbal agreement with demolition team representatives.
Local officials estimate that over 100 houses still stand on the disputed property, and they insist that the demolition should remain suspended until proper legal documentation is presented.
One displaced resident, Rogedele Layno, described the shock of waking up to the demolition and the rush to leave her home.
Another resident, Bernardo Macario, expressed his willingness to vacate the property but insists on proper compensation for his loss.