CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The legal dispute over the proposed Manresa development has entered a new phase after a Makati-based law firm formally joined the legal team representing (COPTAC) in its case against Xavier University and Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI).
Vera Law, a law firm recognized with multiple industry awards, has entered its appearance as collaborating counsel alongside COPTAC’s legal Counsel, Atty. Ralph Metrillo. The move strengthens the legal representation of the coalition as it continues to challenge issues surrounding the Manresa property.In a related development, the case has been elevated to the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), seeking reversal of the Resolution of DENR Regional Office X.
The latest action follows previous legal proceedings involving regulatory concerns raised by COPTAC over the Manresa development project. The coalition maintains its position that the sale of a portion of the property for more than 1.4 Billion Pesos for commercial development is a direct violation of the legal restrictions imposed on Xavier University’s ownership of Manresa. The expansion of the legal team and the elevation of the case to the DENR Central Office mark another significant development in the ongoing dispute, which continues to draw public attention in Cagayan de Oro.Further proceedings are expected as the parties await actions from the DENR and other concerned government agencies.This likewise raised the question whether the dispute will ultimately reach the Supreme Court to finally settle vital legal challenges.
