Taguig's statement came after Makati closed Health Centers and locked two fire stations in the EMBO barangays on the first day of January 2024.
(Photo by PTV 4)
"These funds include the taxes they paid from their earnings, expenses, purchases, businesses, and properties in EMBO. EMBO residents have a right to all land and facilities in their barangay that Makati claims ownership of. Makati has no right to deprive EMBO residents of public facilities and services established for their rights," read Taguig's statement posted on social media.
(Photo by Hermie Padilla)
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano contacted Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos to inform him of the closure of the fire stations, requesting their reopening after Bureau of Fire Protection officials allegedly ignored his call to open the fire stations in EMBO.
(Photo by Taguig PIO)
"First and foremost, that's still under contention when it's proclaimed land due to a Supreme Court decision. That's a separate issue. But here's the issue, when you're in possession of a property, you cannot be suddenly driven out. You need to be evicted. And they cannot evict you unilaterally. The Supreme Court decision is very, very clear. Also, all the issues regarding ownership will be discussed. If it's indeed Makati's, they will pay. If not, then not. But public service shouldn't be delayed," Senator Cayetano said in his Facebook live stream on January 5, 2024.
The two locked fire stations were also reopened after Abalos spoke with Makati Mayor Abby Binay and was accompanied by Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza, Jr. to remove the locks of the fire stations in the EMBO barangays.
"Ownership is not an absolute right, and in the case of public properties, it should not be toyed with for political interests. The land where the EMBO fire stations stand was granted by the State for the safety welfare of the residents," the local government of Taguig further stated.
(Statement of Taguig City Government)
