Local anti-squatting task force eyed in Boracay

There must be a local task force to monitor the presence of squatting syndicates in this popular beach destination, according to a national official.

“We urge the local government to form a local task force that would investigate the possible presence of squatting syndicates in this resort island,” said Atty. Alvin Cadades, director IV of the National Police Task Force on Professional Squatters and Squatting Syndicates.

Cadades – who was in Boracay with officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for an anti-squatting syndicate workshop last week – also encouraged those who were victimized by squatting syndicates to come out and file charges.

Executive Order (EO) 129 defines squatting syndicates as “groups of persons engaged in illegal business of squattier housing for profit or gain.”

The PNP’s Maritime Command, municipal government enforcers and volunteer groups attended the March 8 workshop where they learned how squatting syndicates carry out their modus.

Detecting fake land titles and tax declarations, among others, were taught in the workshop.

Cadades said they brought the workshop to Boracay at the mandate of President Rodrigo Duterte – this amid the island’s environmental rehabilitation.

EO 178 created the National Police Task Force on Professional Squatters and Squatting Syndicates in 1999 to “vigorously pursue the apprehension and prosecution of professional squatters and squatting syndicates nationwide.”

The national task force was established due to the “proliferation of professional squatters and squatting syndicates in urban centers nationwide hamper the effective implementation of the government’s mass housing programs.