Question & AnswerQ&A (MMDA Resolution NO. 2)
The main purpose of MMDA Resolution No. 2 is to require the serving of due notice and/or conduct of dialogue with local government units (LGUs) and concerned national government agencies (NGAs) prior to the relocation of squatters within Metro Manila to ensure proper coordination and preparation.
Republic Act 7924 mandates the MMDA to formulate policies, standards, rules, and regulations including the relocation of squatters as part of urban land use management.
The adverse effects include lack of preparedness of LGUs, inadequate provision of relocation sites and social services, overflow of squatters in relocation areas, increased misery and vulnerability to diseases among relocated squatters.
The recent relocation of 217 Muslim squatters from Quiapo, Manila to Maharlika Village, Taguig, where the local government unit of Taguig was unprepared to provide adequate relocation sites and social services, prompted the resolution.
RA 7924 mandates the MMDA to perform planning, monitoring, coordinative, regulatory, and supervisory functions over metro-wide services, including urban land use, housing facilities, and slum rehabilitation.
The resolution requires that due notice must be served to and/or a dialogue conducted with the concerned LGUs and national government agencies prior to any squatter relocation.
It emphasizes prompt coordination and proper channeling of information between LGUs and concerned NGAs to ensure proper preparation and delivery of needed services to relocated squatters.
The lack of coordination resulted in the relocation site being overcrowded beyond capacity, with 1,500 squatters in a site meant for only 500 families, causing worsened living conditions and health risks.
The resolution took effect immediately upon its approval on January 18, 1996.
The Metro Manila Council consisted of the Chairperson Prospero I. Oreta, and members including mayors from various cities such as Benjamin A. Abalos (Mandaluyong), Ignacio R. Bunye (Muntinlupa), Vicente P. Eusebio (Pasig), Alfredo S. Lim (Manila), Reynaldo O. Malonzo (Caloocan), Vergel A. Aguilar (Las Piñas), Jose T. Capco Jr. (Pateros), Jinggoy E. Estrada (San Juan), Bayani F. Fernando (Marikina), Isidro B. Garcia (Taguig), Joey P. Marquez (Parañaque), Amado S. Vicencio (Malabon), Felipe C. Del Rosario Jr. (Navotas), Jaime R. Fresnedi (MM Council President), and Ernesto F. Rivera (MM Vice President).