(Screenshot of interview with DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos)
Abalos was joined by Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza in reopening the fire station at Barangay West Rembo.
(Screenshot of interview with Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza)
Makati has handed over the management of the two fire stations in the EMBO barangays to the DILG after Abalos spoke with Binay to temporarily set aside the issue of building and land ownership rights.
"National firetrucks, we (DILG) will take care of them. Concerning Makati's personal property, we can't force them, it's theirs. All the national (equipment) registered with the Bureau of Fire, we will just bring in here," according to Abalos. (Click the video below)
(Video from the Facebook Page of DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos)
When asked why Makati locked the two fire stations in EMBO, Abalos said that legal issues such as continued expenses for the EMBO fire stations are no longer part of Makati's budget.
Certeza thanked Abalos for his action and understanding Makati's position.
(Screenshot from the video at DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos' Facebook Page)
"It's just a matter of us standing our ground regarding the preservation of our properties. But with Secretary's intervention here, we have all gained clarity and hopefully the same will be done regarding other facilities. Now, possession is being given to the DILG. As for the details regarding that (lending, leasing, etc.), we have to talk with the Secretary. As the Secretary said, it's easy to talk to Mayor (Binay). What's important is that it opens today," Certeza added.
