ARD Caliao: DPWH Has No Police Power To Evict Occupants Of Gov't Properties

By Mona Lagbas

August 20, 2025, Cagayan de Oro City_"The Department of Public Works and Highways has no police power to evict unauthorized occupants of government properties designated for clearing or construction", thus bewailed Engineer Sabeniano D. Caliao, Jr., Assistant Regional Director of DPWH-10.

Engr. Caliao aired this sentiment during a town meeting spearheaded by the 1st Engineering District of this city, hosted by the Sangguniang Barangay of Balulang. He added that their office can only appeal to settlers or occupants of public lands to vacate or desist from encroaching on lots earmarked for concreting or clearing for public use.

The ARD also said that the DPWH can only coordinate with local government units concerned through written requests for the removal of these structures. Caliao attributed this dilemna as one of the factors for the delays of projects in the region.