By CESAR JOLITO III

An abandoned building on 4th Lacson Street in Bacolod City that has become a temporary shelter for families and children, is facing closure amid concerns of possible illegal activities and safety risks.

Dr. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga, head of the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), confirmed that her office has formally requested the property owner to secure the building and prevent further occupation.

Verdeprado said that efforts to remove the occupants were only temporary.

“We were able to clear the building before, but after a week, some families and children returned,” she noted.

Verdeprado also confirmed that some of the children staying in the building have already been referred to social welfare agencies, while others were not referred because their parents expressed that they would take care of their children.

Based on DSSD records, at least three families and several children are currently staying inside the abandoned property.

Some of the minors have already been referred to social welfare agencies, while others remain under their parents’ care.

“These children should be in school and in the proper care of their families, not exposed to risks inside an abandoned building,” Verdeprado stressed.

Mayor Greg Gasataya is already making moves to permanently close the said building, Verdeprado added.

LGUs are eyeing the permanent closure of the site to prevent it from being used for unlawful activities and to protect vulnerable children./CJ, WDJ