This is the stand of a group opposing Malacañang’s appointment of Fernando, chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority, as head on an inter-agency body in charge of the relocation of informal settlers in the National Capital Region.

President Arroyo named Fernando in May when she created the Metro Manila Inter-Agency Committee (MMIAC) on Informal Settlers which she tasked to develop a comprehensive shelter program for informal settlers affected by the government’s infrastructure projects and those living in dangerous areas.

The group calling itself Task Force Anti-Eviction said Fernando is most unfit to head the committee because he is perceived to be the number one oppressor of the urban poor.  

"He has evicted thousands of the poorest families and left them without relocation, literally homeless in the streets, against our own and international law… Now, he is promoted to head the MMIAC, which puts him in charge of all aspects of social housing, including evictions, relocation, upgrading and construction. His control over the poor is greatly increased," the group said in a statement.

Among members of the group are the Bacood Ilaya Looban Homeowners Association, Samahang Nayon ng Balintawak, SAPIPA-R10 Navotas, Fishport of Navotas Neighborhood Association, and Samahan ng mga Resident eng R-10 Navotas.

Tuguegarao Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan and Bayombong Bishop Ramon Villena, known to be Arroyo allies, have promised to bring the issue to Malacañang’s attention.

The group said it is hoping Arroyo would the call.

It said there are "many other more capable and humane men and women who can head the MMIAC."

"If it is not possible to do this, we ask that you (Arroyo) require Fernando to pledge in a public way that he is committed to providing relocation for all evicted families," it said. – Gerard Naval