By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A 3.5-hectare property in the middle of the Bacolod Shopping Center in Barangay Villamonte is in question as the initial property owners expressed fear of rising tensions among informal settlers who currently occupy the lot.

Gilbert Martir spoke with the media yesterday, where he explained his family had previously sold the said lot and a certain Tyrone Co has since bought the property from the current owner.

However, Martir claims the owner Co purchased the lot from still owes his family P20 million. He said Co is seeking to take possession of the land despite the outstanding debt and pending litigation.

Martir added, Co’s attorney Cesar Beloria, Jr. recently entered the property accompanied by security guards.

“It caused fear among the informal settlers in the lot,” he said.

Martir has since sought the assistance of Task Force Kasanag./DGB, WDJ