By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental provincial government said it will provide financial assistance to approximately 112 informal settler families (ISFs) who are being asked to vacate a privately-owned donated property in Bacolod City’s Barangay 39.

Provincial Legal Office head Atty. Alberto Nellas, Jr. said once the eviction process begins, the affected ISFs may receive financial aid.

Due to a lack of available lots for relocation, Nellas said financial assistance has been identified as a more practical and efficient solution.

Earlier, the final demand to vacate notice had already been served to the residents, instructing them to leave the area and voluntarily dismantle any structures they have built on the property.

The private property was donated by the Lizares family to Negros Occidental High School in 1954, with the intent of establishing a garden school.

However, the land’s intended purpose was never fully realized, and over time, various government offices were set up on the property.

At least 7,000 square meters have been returned to the Lizares family, seeking the eviction of ISFs occupying the donated property./JB, WDJ