Wilson Amad, an IP Defender, expressed deep regret over the abrupt cancellation of a dialogue that was supposed to take place between residents and government officials regarding the controversial demolition of more than 300 homes in Barangay Mambuaya, Cagayan de Oro City.
According to Amad, lawyers and church workers who had been designated as mediators were disheartened because the meeting was called off even though they were already present at the venue prepared for the hearing.
He stressed that the dialogue was crucial to give affected families the chance to voice their concerns and to clarify issues surrounding their right to remain in the community.
As a result of the cancellation, Amad said fear and anxiety continue to grip the residents especially the children, many of whom are traumatized by the destruction of their homes. He added that uncertainty lingers over whether the demolition will resume, leaving families unsettled and insecure about their future.
