Authorities are set to demolish illegal structures along a road in General Santos City.

Residents affected have already received a notice from the local government about the intensified enforcement of the city’s Comprehensive Land Transport and Traffic Code, which is also in compliance with the directive from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The clearing operation will affect structures and roadside vendors encroaching on sidewalks, particularly along national roads.

The road clearing operation is expected to affect the residents’ livelihood, including that of Antonio Yap, who sells junk materials on the sidewalk.

“Lisud pud kay naa mi daplin sa kadalanan nanginabuhi,” Yap said.

Barangay officials explained that aside from being eyesores, the illegal structures have also obstructed the smooth flow of traffic.

“Mandated ni siya sa national nga mag road clearing mi pirmi per barangay kay makita man gud namu nga ang ilang mga gamit man gud naga encroach na sa dalan ba sa sidewalk so need na namu siya i-clear,” Barangay Councilman Alain Asis said.

Affected residents will receive up to three notices. If they fail to comply, the structures will be forcibly removed, and violators may face penalties.

“Isyuhan sila og citation ticket or fine, depende sa PSO (Public services office). More or less first offense anaa sa P500,” Asis added.

Residents affected have appealed to the city government for relocation.

“Naa lang unta sila mahatag nga area nga dili lang layo sa among pangartahan pud dawat man mi,” affected resident, Sarito Montañez, said.

“Muhawa mi pero kung dili sila muhatag ay makipaga-away pud mi diri,” another resident, Analuz Solitario, added.

The city government has reportedly prepared a relocation site.

“Naa may gi-ready ang city amo na lang gipaabot ang order sa city, natagging naman pud na diya,” Asis said.