QC gov't assures housing, relocation support for residents despite NIA Road clearing clash
By Trixee Rosel
The Quezon City government on Friday, Apr. 10, assured residents of continued housing and relocation support despite unrest that erupted during a clearing operation along NIA Road in Barangay Pinyahan.
City authorities said the clearing operation was conducted to prepare the area for the construction of seven government housing buildings intended for families to be relocated from the site.
In a statement, the local government condemned the violence during the operation, saying more than 20 personnel of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) were injured after being hit with bottles, stones, and other hard objects.
“Walang puwang ang karahasan at kawalan ng kaayusan sa ating lungsod, ang ganitong insidente ay hindi lamang naglalagay ng panganib sa buhay ng ating mamamayan, kundi nakahahadlang din sa maayos na pagpapatupad ng proyektong pabahay para sa mga apektadong residente (Violence and disorder have no place in our city, this incident not only endangers the lives of our citizens, but also hinders the proper implementation of the housing project for the affected residents),” the statement read.
Authorities said the disturbance was allegedly caused by individuals with vested interests, including illegal occupants earning from public land and some previously relocated beneficiaries who continued to occupy the area.
Despite the unrest, the city government said most residents have expressed support for the housing project following consultations.
Data from the city government showed that more than 1,600 of the 2,332 affected families have already been issued certifications qualifying them for units under the planned vertical housing development.
Over 200 families have opted for in-city relocation, while another 200 chose off-city relocation, with arrangements being facilitated by the local government.
The Quezon City government, in coordination with the National Housing Authority (NHA), has provided ₱60,000 for homeowners and ₱35,000 for renters and sharers.
The total assistance released has exceeded ₱100 million.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has also extended support to affected families.
Additional rental subsidies will be provided to qualified beneficiaries, while temporary shelter arrangements, including possible evacuation centers, remain available.
Authorities said the housing project is targeted for completion in December 2027, with priority given to legitimate and verified residents.