DAVAO CITY — Mayor Sebastian Duterte has issued a stern warning to illegal settlers within the city’s watershed areas, urging them to dismantle their structures voluntarily or face forced eviction.
According to the Philippines News Agency, Mayor Duterte emphasized the importance of preserving Davao City’s water sources, which he described as vital shared resources threatened by unauthorized settlements. “I strongly advise you to self-demolish to avoid further complications. The government must act to protect our vital natural resources,” Duterte stated in a public announcement on Monday.
The mayor underscored the impact of the settlements on the community at large, criticizing the settlers’ disregard for the broader needs of Davao City’s residents. “When you built your structures, you only thought of yourselves, neglecting the well-being of Dabawenyos. It was a selfish act, but I am giving you an opportunity to self-demolish,” he remarked.
In conjunction with the mayor’s warning, the Watershed Management Council (WMC) is actively engaging with local communities to educate them about the significance of watershed areas. The council is collaborating with village and tribal leaders to enforce watershed conservation and land use policies, aiming to prevent further unauthorized developments.