Manila Demolition Halted Amidst Tense Standoff with Residents

Manila Demolition Halted Amidst Resident Protest: A standoff unfolded in Tondo, Manila, on May 26, 2025, as residents fiercely resisted a demolition. Despite being met with water cannons, they refused to leave their homes, resulting in injuries and arrests. One resident, Erik Talal, stated, "My sister was crying in pain, so I had to protect her." Sheriff Raymundo Rojas of the Metropolitan Trial Court confirmed that compensation would be given to the affected families, with each family receiving 38,700 pesos. However, the residents' determination to remain in their homes highlights the complex issues surrounding displacement and the human cost of development projects. The demolition was ultimately suspended due to humanitarian concerns, leaving the future of the residents uncertain but offering a temporary reprieve from the immediate threat of eviction.