QC stops construction of MRT-7 Quezon Memorial Circle station

The Quezon City government on Tuesday issued a temporary cease and desist order on the aboveground construction of the MRT-7 Quezon Memorial Circle station after authorities found that it will affect the national heritage park.

According to a statement, a review of the project revealed that it had exceeded the agreed area for construction.

"We put a temporary stop to the construction of the QMC station because it would affect the landmark's identity as a national heritage park," Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a statement.

The proposed floor area is more than five times the indicated 4,997 square meters in the projects' permit and clearance.

"We want to look for a win-win solution that would protect our open spaces while advancing the welfare of thousands of commuters who will benefit from the mass transport project," she added.

Belmonte issued the order amid pending talks with developer San Miguel Corporation, contractor EEI Corporation and the Department of Transportation.

"We have initiated talks with the Department of Transportation, contractor EEI, the San Miguel Corporation, and the National Housing Authority, and other stakeholders for clarification and guidance," Belmonte said.

Belmonte called on the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Quezon-Avancena Family and the descendants of the late Manuel Quezon to give their opinion on the matter, saying that a historical landmark is at stake. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LDF, GMA News