Angono community turns ‘ghost town’ amid land disputes

A once-bustling commercial strip in Hillsdale Summit Subdivision has reportedly turned into a “ghost town” after roads were closed and several businesses were forced to cease operations amid a land dispute and a writ of execution.

The closures affect popular local destinations, including several overlooking cafés and restaurants known for scenic lakeshore and city views, such as Tagpuan Café, Tanaw Comedy Bar, Sky View Café and Cafe in the Sky.

More than 200 employees across various establishments face the risk of losing their jobs if the enforcement of the writ of execution continues.

To recall, tensions flared again after a group of masked men, allegedly deployed as security by an individual claiming ownership of the area, reportedly prevented customers and employees from entering the establishments.

The dispute stems from a writ of execution. Sheriff IV Ronaldo Olorcisimo initially included structures along N. Bernardo Street, where Tagpuan Café is located, in his supplemental report.

However, Olorcisimo later clarified that Tagpuan Café is not included in the disputed land and requested clarification from the court to ensure proper implementation of the demolition or eviction order.

Jane, an employee at Tagpuan Café, insisted their business was not a respondent in the land case and was being unfairly targeted.

“Our owner’s name is not there, and our place is not included in the sheriff’s order. We are a business, not a respondent in the case,” Jane said in an interview Saturday night.

She asserted that the land occupied by Tagpuan Café was legally acquired through auction from the provincial government, and they are fully compliant with both real property and Bureau of Internal Revenue taxes.

Jane called on authorities to intervene, asking them to “open the gate and remove the civilians who are harassing our customers.”

Business owners are currently fighting the matter in court but are asking the local government and police to ensure the safety of employees and customers.

The business community is calling for dialogue, fair investigation, and clarity on the scope of the writ to prevent the loss of livelihood for hundreds of workers.

Jane also expressed disappointment that the Angono local government has only offered to look for other areas for the affected businesses, arguing that the LGU itself issued their original permits.

As of Sunday, no dialogue between business owners and the local government had been established.