The Mayor and the Chairman meet by chance at the “road”
This weeks’ biggest controversy does not involve politics or a financial scam – but a road – going to a spring. This road in barangay Sto. Niño, Balilihan, has gained prominence after Richli Water placed a barricade in an area, to regulate the usage of the pathway towards Bugwak Spring. The social media was buzzing last week with photographs of the barricade with a tarpaulin where the words “NO ENTRY” and “PRIVATE PROPERTY” were printed on it.
The barricade was removed by barangay officials for being a road obstruction since the barangay has the mandate to remove obstructions on roads. The barangay leadership sees the road as a public property in opposition to the allegations of Richli Water.
Yesterday, Nov. 27, 2021, a “meeting by chance” between Balilihan mayor Pureza Chatto and Richli Water chairman Richard Lim, took place at the controversial road. While tensions built up, the meeting ended peacefully with the local government unit still able to proceed with its project.
It is expected that the two parties will meet again, may be in court, seeking justice with the LGU to finish its project and with Richli Water protecting its interest and purchased property. Richli Water through Lim said that the company will allow the pipes to traverse the side of its property as long as the water drawn by Balilihan Waterworks will be for the sole consumption of the residents of the town.
To get more insights and context of the issue, read the banner story on page 1 and additional information on page 10 and 11.
Richli Water Chairman Richard Lim holds some documents to prove his claim that the road is part of his company’s property.
Richard Lim of Richli Water (left) holds some documents as Lt. Yolando Bagotchay (right), Balilihan police chief scans the content of a document.
Mayor Pureza Chatto, the lady mayor of Balilihan is definite, resolved and determined to protect what she believes is owned and belongs to Balilihan.