The Taguig City government has demolished 37 structures at the Comembo Wet Market after confirming that they encroached on a legal easement along the Taguig River, as well as a road lot, a dike wall, and private property.
In a statement released on Thursday, the city’s public information office explained that these encroachments violated environmental and land-use regulations, posing risks to public safety and infrastructure.
The violations were confirmed through a joint survey conducted in December 2024, which included the participation of the vendors’ geodetic engineer and representatives from the city government. The vendors, assisted by their legal counsel, agreed to respect the findings of the joint survey.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a formal letter supporting the removal of the structures, citing their presence within a protected easement area.
Recognizing the impact of the removal, the local government issued multiple formal notices and allowed ample time for voluntary compliance. Accommodations were also provided, including postponements of the demolition, joint technical inspections, and the use of alternate survey references, all of which validated the encroachments.
To assist the vendors, Mayor Laarni Cayetano’s administration offered relocation to nearby legal markets equipped with water and electricity. Additionally, they provided livelihood assistance, including job opportunities and financial aid.
However, there were reports that the vendors declined the help offered by the local government.
City officials stated that the demolition was conducted peacefully, with no untoward incidents occurring.
