Ex-vice mayor urges Taguig, Makati to ensure ‘smooth transition’ on land dispute

Former Makati City Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — The city governments of Taguig and Makati on Monday were pressed to work together for a “smooth transition” of its disputed barangays after the Supreme Court decision declared the ownership in favor of Taguig City.

Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado made the appeal in a statement, citing SC spokesperson Brian Hosaka, who explained that the high court dismissed the omnibus petition of the Makati City government requesting that the land dispute case be appealed before the Supreme Court En Banc due to lack of merit.

Hosaka also explained that since the SC had already issued a final decision, it would no longer accept any pleadings, motions, letters, or communication concerning the case.

To recall, the high court, in its decision, declared Fort Bonifacio, Barangay Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo, and Pitogo as well as the Philippine Army headquarters, Navy installation, Marines’ headquarters, Consular area, JUSMAG area, Heritage Park, Libingan ng mga Bayani, AFP Officers Village, and 6 other adjacent villages is under the jurisdiction of Taguig based on historical, documentary, and testimonial evidence.

The SC ruling also directed Makati City to shoulder the expenses incurred in the land dispute case.

Taguig City, for its part, said that it is hopeful that Makati City will cooperate for the smooth transition of the affected barangays to ensure continuous public service and for the benefit of former residents of Makati.

It should be noted that the University of Makati is located in West Rembo, while the Ospital ng Makati is in Barangay Pembo. This means the SC decision effectively places both facilities in the city of Taguig.

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