TRO Halts Matina Crossing Demolition in Davao City

THE Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 11 issued a 72-hour temporary restraining order (TRO) halting demolition activities in Barangay Matina Crossing, 74-A, Davao City, on May 24, 2025. 

This development offers temporary relief to hundreds of residents as the court moves to hear a possible preliminary injunction.

The TRO comes a day after a large-scale demolition operation on May 23 displaced approximately 400 families and destroyed around 80 homes in Upper and Center Arroyo, Matina Crossing. The demolition was carried out through a Special Writ of Demolition (Case No. M-DVO-24-03843-SC) issued by the court.

The operation began early Friday morning with a pre-deployment briefing conducted by the Talomo Police Station. The session was led by Talomo police chief, PMaj. Genesis P. Oriel, and area supervisor Captain Ryan Kenneth T. Ramones.

According to Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon, a total of 300 police personnel and 500 demolition workers were deployed to the area, which spans roughly three hectares.

Authorities employed maximum tolerance, strict adherence to rules of engagement, and maintained peace and order throughout the operation. Safety protocols and coordination strategies were also discussed to ensure orderly execution.

Despite these efforts, confusion and dismay spread among residents of the Arroyo Compound. Several homeowners alleged that their houses were not part of the demolition order. 

A purok leader expressed frustration, stating that while only seven homes were reportedly listed for demolition, nearly all structures in the compound were affected, including hers, which was not on the list.

On the other hand, the barangay captain of Matina Crossing Joel Santes disclosed that he was only informed about the demolition order a day before it was carried out. He admitted uncertainty over the scope of the order, particularly regarding which among the four land titles in the compound were actually covered. 

The barangay leader has advised affected residents to consider pursuing legal action against those involved in the demolition.

As of the present, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has mobilized assistance for displaced families. Assessment and listing of affected individuals began Saturday morning at the Justiniani Gym in Matina Crossing. 

CSWDO has also deployed mobile kitchens and distributed food packs to support families displaced by the demolition in the privately owned compound.

Meanwhile, the barangay officials welcomed the TRO as a crucial step in defending the rights of their constituents. 

“We continue to work tirelessly to ensure the welfare and secure the future of our displaced families. We urge everyone to remain calm and cooperate with the legal process,” a statement from the leadership of the Barangay Matina Crossing read.