A clearing operation along NIA Road in Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City turned tense on Thursday, April 9, leaving 20 individuals injured and leading to the arrest of seven residents, according to the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).
QCPD personnel were deployed to maintain peace and order during the clearing of a residential area intended for a government housing project for families affected by a previous fire.
QCPD Kamuning Police Station commander PLTCOL Zachary Cappellan said the situation escalated after some residents barricaded the area and resisted the clearing operation despite prior negotiations.
Based on the QCPD report, tensions further intensified when some residents allegedly threw stones, wood, and bottles at law enforcement personnel.
The suspects, aged 20 to 48, were arrested after forming a barricade and engaging police during the clearing operation.
Twenty individuals, including police officers, were injured, while seven residents were arrested for direct assault and disobedience to a person in authority.
The QCPD said the confrontation also resulted in injuries to several of its personnel.
“It took more than an hour to pacify the situation, but there was tension,” Cappellan told Manila Bulletin.
“Negotiations were conducted before authorities proceeded with the operation after residents reportedly refused to comply,” he added.
The QCPD said the arrested individuals will face charges for direct assault, resistance and disobedience, and obstruction of justice before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities said the clearing activity is part of preparations for the construction of seven government housing buildings in the area.
The area was previously devastated by a fire that destroyed around 5,000 houses and displaced about 4,000 families.
Residents, however, disputed the operation, saying they were not properly informed and that no adequate staging area or relocation site was provided, while also questioning the timing of the clearing activity.
Authorities said rental and cash assistance have been extended to affected families as part of government support measures.
The housing project is targeted for completion in December 2027.
As of reporting, police said the arrested individuals were brought to Camp Karingal for documentation and further legal proceedings.