BY: VANESSA BUGTONG
Residents of Barangay Guisad Surong in Baguio City are growing increasingly concerned about their safety, more than a month after access to their main road was blocked by a private landowner.
On April 18, over a thousand residents of Purok 2, 3, and 4 were effectively cut off when fencing was installed along their primary route.
The newly built gate and wall now stand where an open path once connected them to the city.
“It’s hard for seniors like us,” said Gualberto Isasi, a resident. “What if there’s a fire or emergency? How will we get help?”
The only passage now available is a narrow, 500-meter alleyway that residents say is too tight to accommodate emergency responders, especially with the rainy season approaching.
“My father is 84,” said Belinda Santoniel. “We keep reminding him to be careful. But what if there’s a medical emergency and no ambulance can reach us?”
Residents are appealing to the authorities and to the new landowners to find a more compassionate solution.
“We hope the new landowner could build a proper access road before closing this one,” Isasi added.
“All we’re asking for is a little consideration,” said Santoniel. “We’re willing to do our part if they meet us halfway.”
Barangay officials say they are in talks with the City Buildings and Architecture Office (CBAO), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the city government to resolve the issue.
“There’s already an existing road there,” said Barangay Captain Philip Cosalan. “We hope it can be inspected and opened again.”
While discussions are ongoing, officials aim to negotiate a temporary solution that would allow residents access through the property once more.
For now, residents wait, hoping that the road, and their peace of mind, will be restored.
