Court allows Taguig LGU to continue services in EMBO barangays
A regional trial court (RTC) granted Taguig City a writ of preliminary injunction allowing it to continue providing basic services, including healthcare, wellness, and recreation, in the disputed Enlisted Men's Barrios (EMBO) barangays.
According to the seven-page ruling by the Taguig RTC-Branch 153 on May 22, Makati City will no longer have control over government facilities in the EMBO barangays such as health centers, covered courts, daycare centers, among others.
"After careful evaluation of the evidence on record, this Court finds the prayer for issuance of Writ of Preliminary Prohibitory and Mandatory Injunction to be impressed with merit," the ruling read.
The court noted that the plaintiff, Taguig City, anchored its prayer on the Supreme Court ruling in 2021 that Barangays Cembo, South Cembo, Comembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, Pembo (including Rizal), Pitogo, Post Proper Northside, and Post Proper Southside are within the territory of Taguig.
This decision became final and executory in September 2022.
"Given the foregoing, this court finds that the plaintiff had shown sufficient evidence of its clear and unmistakable right to the possession of the subject public facilities/structures," the latest ruling further read.
The preliminary injunction came after the Taguig City RTC issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on May 6, prohibiting Makati and any of its personnel from preventing Taguig to take full and exclusive possession of public properties in the EMBO barangays.
For her part, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano welcomed the court's decision.
"Lubos po naming ikinagagalak ang desisyong ito ng korte. Sa pamamagitan ng preliminary injunction, tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbabalik ng serbisyo sa mga taga-EMBO. Mula sa check-up ng mga buntis, bakuna ng mga bata, gamot ng mga senior, hanggang sa sports at wellness activities sa mga courts at parke—bawat isa ay may karapatang makinabang," she said in a statement.
(We are very happy with this court decision. With the preliminary injunction, services will continue to be restored to EMBO residents. From check-ups for pregnant women, vaccinations for children, medications for seniors, to sports and wellness activities in the courts and parks—everyone has the right to benefit.) — VDV, GMA Integrated News
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