”Isko” justifies clearing operation in Manila North Cemetery

October 31, 2019

Manila City Mayor Francis “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Thursday said the clearing operation they conducted inside the Manila North Cemetery is just right.

In an interview with reporters, Domagoso said removing the informal settlers inside is challenging.

“It’s not an easy job but for us, as much as possible we want diplomacy. For a long time they (were) here, they had free rent, I’m just not sure about the electricity, thanks to Manila City government, or (even) water. Because there are no facilities like that here,” he said.

“But as I just said they benefited for the long time so now we just want to show our concern for the people who have relatives buried here. This is a place for dead and not for alive,” he added.

The mayor said it’s just right to return the cemetery to the public.

“I think what we did is not bad and we are just being reasonable,” he said.

For those who are residing inside, Domagoso said he will provide financial assistance so they can go back to their families in the provinces.

“I will also help them in asking for assistance to the Department of Social Welfare and Development,” he said.

“It’s time already. I think the local government is not selfish. We just need to make things in order,” he added.

Domagoso said the local government needs space for those who will bury their families or relatives inside.

“So where we will place them if there are houses here?” he said.

For flower and candle vendors, the mayor said they were allowed to sell on the places he allocated for them.

But other merchandise, such as clothes, are not allowed to be sold around the cemetery.

“As concern to our people, I gave them space… I allowed them to sell. I think they can sell a lot since people can easily find them,” he said.

Domagoso said food stalls are also allowed as long as they keep their place clean.

“Since they earn, it should be their obligation to clean their place,” he said. Ella Dionisio/DMS