One of our writers here on the Live in the Philippines Web Magazine, Klaus Doring, has been fighting a battle for several weeks now. While I don’t know the whole story behind this, I know that it’s been very stressful for Klaus and is family. Klaus asked me to write a little bit about this on the site, so I will do that today.
It all started a few weeks ago as I said. I got a text message from Klaus, telling me that there was a major problem. Klaus and his wife Rosanna had gone home one afternoon to the house that they own here in Davao city, and found they could not go to their house. There was a big fence standing across their driveway, as a matter of fact, you couldn’t even see their house from the road anymore. How could this happen? Well, Klaus did some checking and found that a neighbor had erected the fence, blocking all access to his house. I’m told that the neighbor even had armed men guarding the fence and blocking any access.
Klaus went through a number of different means of trying to get the fence removed, but all to no avail. He has talked to local police, City Council, even sent a note to the mayor, but still the fence is standing, and he has no direct access to his house. It is my understanding that they have been able to access their house, but only by making the hole in the wall in their backyard, and crawling through there, certainly not a suitable way to go home.
Klaus is pursuing a number of legal means to resolve the problem, and tomorrow he will be having a hearing on the issue. Also, I think there is still some chance that the city government may step in and try to resolve the impasse. For the sake of the family, I hope that the issue can be settled quickly. Yesterday, I was told that Rosanna’s mother had suffered a stroke due to the stress of this issue. When the ambulance came they were unable to access the house, because they were blocked by the fence. Today, I have not heard how she is doing, but I wish her the best.
Personally, I don’t understand how somebody can just build a fence in front of a house that you own, blocking the access to it. From what I have been told, the extreme stress from this has affected the entire family, and I can understand why. Certainly, it cannot be legal to build a fence and block somebody’s house like that.
I would like to wish Klaus all the best in this endeavor. For the sake of everybody involved, I hope that the resolution can happen quickly. Good luck!
The fact the local officials have done nothing to expidite solving the situation, or in the very least grant a right of way for Klaus is a sad sad testimony to the inept,incompetent and pathetic state of affairs in Pinoy politics. It is of little wonder why the Philippines has been stuck in the quagmire of a 3rd world nation. I’d love to take an elevator ride for 2 minutes with the perpetuator of this act…I have little tolerance for such childish bullish behavior. My blood boils thinking of this…
I am at a lose trying to understand how someone can erect a fence in front of the klaus house and the city and/or police have not done anything to help klaus get back into his house. How can this be? Also, does he have a photo he can post?
There was an article at Sunstar news yesterday – http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/dav/2008/07/09/n…
ellen
Hi Bob:
A few of questions.
1. Who owns the land that the fence is on?
2. Does Klaus own his house or rent it?
3. Does Klaus have clear legal right of way to the house his family is occupying?
4. Is there a clear deed to the property they occupy and does it state means of access?
Knowing those answers will clear up the situation. Depending on those facts the mother inlaw/family may have legal recourse for any consequences and complications due to obstruction of access.
5. What were the preceding acts of both parties that lead up to this?
Hello Bob
Wishing Klaus has some better luck with this issue. I have had a small taste of what Klaus is going through when some relative tried to lay claim to property my wife’s family had inherited. Also I was surprised to find that land can be sold in the RP with out access also know as land locked. I know the court system can be slow in the RP. Hoping an attorney can expedite the case.
That's about the craziest thing I ever heard! How can someone block access to your own home? And the lack of assistance from the authorities is amazing to say the least. I hope Klaus gets this resolved as soon as possible. My prayers especially go out to Rosanna's mother.
Morning Bob,
Quite unreal. I can only imagine it relates to disputed title? We have discussed before in this blog the problems that a poor land titling system can present to investment. Good questions from WayneA.Derby. This sort of situation, if Klaus is not completely in the wrong, really puts shivers up the spine of people considering a move to a different country. As the outsider you will always be in the wrong. The people he is in dispute with must have financial means in order to hire armed guards! I hope it works out well for all concerned. I know from first hand experience the stress it causes when you are powerless to resolve a situation that causes such angst.
kamusta bob
ahh i certainly dont know the laws in philippines but each lot sold in usa has a deeded right of way to the owners residence,i think its highly illigal to block someones access to thier home and especially in case of emergency or fire.this man could be sued for his actions.i would be very angry if it happened to me for sure.i really hope klaus and his family will have resolve soon.
we will pray for klaus and his family…..godbless
salamat bob
Klaus is a really good guy. This is insane…even if there is a title dispute, it is difficult to believe that walling someone off from there home is legal, until a court adjudicates the matter…even in the Philippines. Also, this person must be very rich/powerful/politically connected if it has taken this long to resolve such an obvious and clear cut case of abuse. It is also very ominous that armed guards were involved. Something is very fishy about the way this is being handled.
Hi Robert G – I posted a picture with the article, perhaps you missed that? Or were you looking for a picture of Klaus himself? If you want to see what Klaus looks like you can just go to his site by clicking on his name at the top of this page.
Hi Ellen – yes indeed, I also read that article. I've actually known about the situation since the first day, but Klaus asked me not to write about it until now.
Hi Wayne A. Derby – I don't know the answers to most of your questions Wayne. Although I will will answer as best I can below. I will say this, and is not meant as a criticism of Klaus, it has been difficult to get information from Klaus during this time. Firstly, he's very busy. Secondly, he's under extreme stress, and is quite emotional. Thirdly, there's a bit of the language barrier. With class being so emotional, I believe it that makes it harder to speak English to express his thoughts as he would like.
Now, to answer your questions the best I can:
1. His house sits back from the road, about 20 feet. Klaus says that that from 20 feet is owned by the city, and he has a legal right of way to access his driveway.
2. As said any recall, Klaus owns the house.
3. I believe I answered this in number one.
4. I believe the answer is yes, but you must refer back to my explanation of why it's hard to get information.
5. I don't know, only files could answer that for me.
Let me say this, Klaus has owned this property since the 1980s, so were talking long-term. For something like this to happen now some 20 plus years after he owned the property simply doesn't make sense to me.
Hi Larry – inheritance of property is always a big problem here in the Philippines, it seems. I'm with you, I wish Klaus the best.
Hi Henry S – I'm sure that Klaus and the family will appreciate your sentiments very much.
Hi AussieLee – from what I've been told, there were never was any dispute on the title. In over 20 years, the first time a problem came up was when the family came home and saw fence erected in front of their place! I guess that would get your attention, right? 😆
Hi Brian – I think it's possible that local officials will still do something, but the system is slow. Of course when you hardly have access to your house, a slow resolution is quite painful.
Hi Ron W – I'm with you, if I came home and saw that fans standing in front of my house my blood would be boiling. I have to give credit to Klaus, because my rage would have been uncontrollable.
this is bizarre & infuriating. i wish klaus all the best.
im really surprised by this. if only there is someone in a important position who could act on this asap.
Hi RichardInSC – yes, Klaus is a good man, and he wouldn't hurt a fly. He went to court, the first day after this happened, but the resolution would have been very expensive in that case, and it was more than he could afford. I hope you get some action soon.
Hi macky – I agree with you 100%, this or and infuriating are perfect words to describe the situation.
Hi Bob,I had a like wise problem in the states,the people next to me wanted to build a fence to block my access to a canal leading to the river,so they showed up one day with fence in hand.But they didnt take into acount that they had to cross my property to get to it,they were land locked.I called the cops and they were sent home with the understanding that they could only access there property via the canal.It does not pay to be mean.By the way i bought that property from them as they found out what the score was.Jim.
It is very difficult to jump to conclusions. I know for a fact that in Canada, no government official will take action unless a written and formal complaint is filed. The article said that the councilor received this on June 30th. Secondly, the government will not take action immediately unless they do their own investigations first as a third party. I hope they find the owner soon AND hope it is not the city who owns it.
We had the same situation in Norway where we have a mountain cabin that was there since WWII. We have the right of way- a foot path through a farmer's land. The farmer sold the land and over time, probably to several new owners and finally to a real estate developer who subdivided. The new owner's WIFE of course do not remember or is not aware that there is this right of way given and filed a complaint with the government preventing us from passing through. What I am saying here is that I really do hope that this is just a big misunderstanding and all will end well for Klaus.
Hi Bob, what a cowardly act and how inept are the government services. At least they could have ordered the the neighbor to take the fence down until the dispute was resolved.
The horrible little person must have been planning on doing that for some time judging by the length of the fence. Placing armed guards seems to me to way over the top. It makes you think just how much influence the neighbor has. It does seem strange that officials cannot do anything, or is it that they are too lazy to get involved.
It certainly puts a dampener wanting to live in paradise.
I wish both Klaus and his wife that their problems are resolved very soon and his wife's mother a full recovery.
AND STICK THAT BLOODY FENCE RIGHT ON THE NEIGHBOR'S FRONT DOOR WITH A BIG BILL FOR THE COST OF REMOVAL.
Steven
Hi jim – it sounds to me like you resolved that one well! I hope it works out that well for my friend.
Hi Ellen – yes, I understand what you're saying that it takes time for research and other types of things in a case like this, but for the family involved its quite stressful. I hope it can be resolved quickly.
Hi Steven – I believe your attitude about this in mind would have been similar! It's probably good for Klaus that he was able to maintain his cool to some extent.
Hi Bob:
You are correct, it does not make sense. At least on the surface. I have just found going through life that there is usually some underlying reason for acts like this. Can anyone say the word extortion? Perhaps,("rich foreigner"). Or feud?
I told Jo I would be prone to get a bulldozer and solve the problem once and for all. Then again I can be aggressive, which is not the Philippine way.
Hope & prey that it ends on a positive note for Klaus SOON!!!
Hi Wayne A. Derby – I'm like you, I would lose my temper, I'd probably just smash my truck through the fence. However, the problem is, if either of us had done something like that we would be dead now, because there were armed guards on the fence, and from what I've been told they were serious about the situation.
I don't believe this is a case of extortion, because from what I've been told, the person who put up the fence is a lot richer than Klaus is.
Bob
Klaus may want to consider a high intensity spot light along with a couple people to make sure the light is viewed on the neighbors windows all night long.
😈
Please give Klaus my best and if needed I am good for $100.00US for his defense fund !!!!!
Hey Bob… This sounds like extortion to me… I'm with you in that I would probably lose it, bringing my own armed guards. Unfortunately, that's how wars start. It's also a probable ticket to deportation if a conflict occurs… Scary. This is simply one of the nastiest things I have heard of. I doubt they are wealthy or well-connected. Probably they just know the law and are trying to drag things out or get Klaus to sell. Who knows! Just remember that sometimes, Karma is a B**ch. Being the foreigner, I can only imagine how Klaus feels.
Bob,
Has the neighbor given Klaus any explanation why he put the fence up? It is a bad sign that the neighbor is rich, Possibly he paid off a number of government officials to steal Klaus's property.
Hi Larry – that might not be a bad idea.
Hi Tyleen – wow, that's very generous of you. It wasn't the intention of this column to request donations, hopefully it won't come to that.
Hi John Miele – you're right, in fact, at times during this ordeal Klaus has actually been invited to leave the country if he doesn't like the way things work here.
Hi Joe Parisi – to be honest, pretty much everything I know about the case, I wrote in a column. I'm not aware of any explanation having been given, although it's a possibility I guess.
No matter what the legal or morale arguments, my love and support goes to Klaus and his family and especially to his mum who is suffering now, and having met this lady she is an inspiration to all.
LOVE TO YOU ALL
Hi john – I'm behind you on that one. I think we all agree.
Really a strange situation. Put me down for 100 USD also. Money might be what he needs. I hope everyone that can makes a committment to get him the best legal help money can buy. Ron
Ditto Tyleen …count me in for $100.00 to if needed for Klaus Bob, more than happy to help him out!!
My best wishes to Klaus and his family, I hope this works out for them very, very soon.
My next comment is in no way intended to diminish the situation that Klaus and his family find themselves in, but I think some of the comments are out of line, such as "…inept,incompetent and pathetic state of affairs in Pinoy politics. It is of little wonder why the Philippines has been stuck in the quagmire of a 3rd world nation."
I'm not trying to start a flame war, and there very well could be some official(s) complicit in this whole mess, but this type of (in)action is in no way monopolized by the Philippines or developing nations in general. I have experienced first hand, or at least my wife has, difficulties dealing with RP gov't officials – minor (MINOR) compared to Klaus' situation – but if pressed I could cite numerous examples of inept, incompetent, pathetic and/or corrupt gov't actions in the US. Don't get me wrong, I ain't sayin' inept, incompetent, pathetic politics aren't a major problem in RP, I'm just saying they got company around the world 😕
Unfortunately the ones who always get hurt are the honest, everyday people. My heart goes out to the whole family.
I'm sorry to disagree with some here…but there is just no excuse for this situation…sorry, outside of eminent domain (which is bad, I admit, but legal and has 'due process'), there is nothing even remotely close to this situation in the US. Klaus would, bless his soul, be the first to tell me to take a long walk off a short pier for saying what I'm about to say…but this is well beyond a criminal act…if the rich/politically connected can use force of arms (and who else in the Philippines can hire armed guards and build a fence so quickly) to run somebody off of their property any time they choose, without an immediate law enforcement response, then this society has some really really serious problems, no matter how much anybody here loves the people and culture…it is yet another shot across the bow to foreigners living here that when it comes to equality before the law…you, not so much. There are a lot of other symptoms that I won't go into here, but make it clear that the Philippines really doesn't have the whole 'due process' thing down.
You can add me in for $100 too… I'm also willing to talk to some friends at the very senior national government level if he thinks that will help (He can e-mail me privately, If he so desires).
Good Day to you, Mr. Bob and to all!
It really saddens me that such a heartless being would inflict an incomprehensible pain to his neighbor. I'm sure the readers of this article do feel bitter and upset, as to why this has happened, to all people, to such respectable and peace-loving family. Such feeling is very understandable indeed. I myself was stunned.
But I still believe there is hope in this crisis.
I remember that a similar incident occurred here in my very hometown in Laguna province.
An elderly woman has her residence located just along a major roadway that connects our village to the rest of the town. One day, to everyone's surprise, she had the roadway heavily barricaded because she insisted on her "right of way" and stressed that the roadway is actually her property! Probably, she expected some toll fees from motorists every time they pass through. Fortunately, the barangay (local district) officials intervened and helped calm down the shrieking lady. Well, thankfully, everything seemed to turn out fine. I guess some people are too protective of their perceived property that they would resort to unlawful means just to point out their senseless greed.
There may be wicked and "rotten-to-the-core" Filipinos, but true Filipinos are peace loving, understanding, and above all, faithful. I know that the Lord God will protect Mr. Klaus' family from any harm and will help them overcome this unfortunate ordeal.
Hoping the best for the Klauses. I pray and I believe…
Hi again Bob:
Two things.
1. I do not get mad or loose my temper. I get even and settle the score if need be!
2. I would not be dead either. Remember what I do for a living? I kill things,,, and I have had men under my barrel before. Anyone can carry a gun, but it takes someone that has used one to pull the trigger on a human and be accurate. Just because someone carries a gun does not mean they are any good with it.
"I am a citizen, I am armed, and I vote. I have no malice, and I am compassionate to those who do not perpetrate against me. But those that do, I have no need or mercy for" In USA I believe in the 2nd amendment…
How about sending back few filipino illegals in Germany? This will get the Philippine goverment to get involve.
With all due respect, foreigners are not the only ones harmed by inequalities in the Philippines. I disagree that there is nothing even remotely close to this situation in the US. I'm pulling for Klaus, so I prefer not to argue this further. Therefor, I acquiesce.
Gary,
I understand the filipinos are the first victims of such an arbitrary system…again, lot's of very bad cases here..but this seems to be something more than that. But, I appreciate your sentiments about Klaus and his family and I agree…we should all support him now and hope that he gets some justice.
Richard, agreed. I probably shouldn't have ranted in the first place. I'm new to this site so I went through and read a number of Klaus' articles – what a refreshing perspective.
Hi Bob,
This is an outrage! Even if there are irregularities, surely there are better ways to resolve the dispute. The neighbours coud have persued a legal letter of their position. I am stunned. I feel so sad for Klaus and his family. I hope this is resolved quickly and peacefully so Klaus and his family can begin to get their life back.
Thanks for telling us. From half way around the world, all I can do is pray for Klaus, Rosa and her mother.
Karen
Dear Bob: Thank you for posting this article on your site. I appreciate it very much.
Dear LiP-readers: my family and I are very touched because of your concern, support and help. God bless you all.
I try to give some more individual answers to each one of you, even Bob did it already.
Hi Robert G., you can see the photo within Bob article. When I called the police and barangay police nothing happened. 911 came and told me to protect me/us, when the bodyguards pointed their guns to my nephew and brother-in-law, who wanted to enter the compound, because my mother collapsed because of "high sugar". When I asked 911 for a doctor, nothing happened…
Hi Ellen, thanks for the link. Yeah, I asked the SunStar Chiefeditor, who is my/our friend since many years, to "help"… Also Bombo Radio aired "our case" already several times…
Hi Wayne, thanks for stopping by. Bob is right, he doesn't know all details. 1. We owned our property already in 1989. Our title says clearly: 15 meter wide Cadastral Road along the whole East boundary. This half of the road has been squattered AND titled AND even the City Engineers Office issued a fence permit. Of course, we built up several houses in our compound: this time 21 persons are living here. CENRO issued last year a legal right of way, even it's not needed: The Vincinity Map from last week STILL SHOWS A ROAD as stated in our title AND nothing else. Of course we will go on filing cases regarding moral damages etc. To let you know: we also have our business inside the compound (of course with permit number). Also our electric and water meters are blocked. The 'new chinese owner' tries to file a case AGAINST ME now (threads) 🙄
Hi Larry, thanks for your concern. Did you say attorney? Even having all evidences the attorney asked at first a professional fee of 200,000 Pesos, just to get a simple Temporary restrain Order. After this a possible 25% success-fee… But with this TRO our problem would not have been solved…
Hi Henry S., yeah, you are very right. What also hurts us is the lacking assistance of the "actually involved departments". Thank you for your prayer. My mother-in-law can't walk any more. She needs 24 hours aid while staying in the bed.
Klaus, Rosa & Family,
I feel for you in your dire predicament. Hopefully this is resolved soon and w/o further pain (financial, emotional, etc.) to all parties involved.
Have you tried settling out of court? Probably a friendly approach or conversation can open up new avenues to a peaceful resolution. As AmericanLola once said in a blog post I read (a while back), "saving face" is so ingrained in the culture. The way this is going, since it has gained some media spotlight, the other party will even be more determined now to save face, while you continue to press on for your "rights" and "your day in court." It's unfair, I know…
I wish the best alternatives would present themselves to you immediately.
I wish you and your family the best. I'm rooting for a happy outcome for you. I know how much you love the Philippines and how you've embraced the country as your second home.
Namaste,
US-based LiP reader
Hi AussieLee, I have to agree with you strongly. Even visiting the Philippines since 1976, since the 1980s more or less yearly, and even living here for good since 1999 "in such things" one remains as outsider. It doesn't mean that i give up. Even being a journalist and having "many connections" – you can see what happened. How much more those ex pats "without connections'? 🙄
Hi Brian, strong words – for some readers too strong, as we can all noticed. But I almost collapsed also on the street, knowing my mother has been collapsed AND NO ONE got access to help her. Only one nephew, who study medicine climbed our wall at the back yard and gave her first aid. As I stated before: When I asked 911 for a doctor NOTHING HAPPENED…
Hi Ron W, thanks for your concern and prayer. Yeah, there is legal right of way. But as I said before: in front of our property has been a 15 meters wide public road. So when we got our building permit there was no need to claim any legal right of way…
With you in thought Klaus . God speed in resolving this night mare
Hi RichardinSC, it's sad to say, but you are absolutely right. Right now there is again a hearing. I didn't attend – I let my family go while answering some comments here. it's not because I am afraid, it's because my health condition doesn't allow me to attend… I am sure you understand…
Hi Bob, regarding # 15 more or less: it's meanwhile the 4th 'owner' of a titled public road, and he was the first who acted like this… Our case is even pending in the Ombudsman Office of Davao since 2 years. Nothing happened any more. Just to clarify and explain for all readers: In the Philippines the Ombudsman can investigate regarding corruption in government agencies. If I am not mistaken: "ordinary people' can't file a case against government officials…
To Bob and all: I really apologize for some language barriers… I wish everybody might understand me…
Hi macky #18: thanks for your concern. It's indeed bizarre and unbelievable. Our hope rests now on city councilor Pilar Braga's shoulders, who tries her best to solve anything and of course, we hope also to get help from Mayor Duterte.
Hi Bob # 19: thanks for your compliment. Yeah, I actually can't even kill a fly. But you can see, also such things are not a blank cheque for a worries free life in paradise…
Hi Jim # 21: nice example. It shows it can also happened in The U.S. BUT, in my case, why should I buy this portion just to quarantee access to my compound? It's still a public road, even titled under very obvious circumstances… 🙄
Hi Ellen #22: thanks for your concern and explanations. my last (!) written complaint dated june 30, 2008 is actually like "a last hope" involving the mayor of Davao City thru the office of Councilor Braga, whom I know personally since many years (as well as some other councilors). We have plenty of written complaints from the last years: read my earlier comments on this site: NOTHING or only a little bit happened… . And by the way, this was my first time to experience people pointing guns on family members…
Hi Steven # 23; thanks for your strong comment and for your concern. As I stated before; my mother-in-law will never be able to move any more. Some other in – laws suffered "traumas". My wife and I are under medication. Yes, i was trying to remain cool, but i couldn't. That's why one of the 911 officers told me to go back to my home country… When I asked him. if he would have a mother and what he would do in my case, he answered: "That's not the topic'…
Hi Wayne # 27: Yeah, not only I felt the same. It forbids to mention details of what some people told me, while watching "the operation". But as Bob said… . Even you can't control your temper any more, a bloodbath wouldn't be the right solution. By the way; the new owner is a Filipino-Chinese businessman. I have no ideas about his savings…
hi Larry, maybe a good idea… THANKS.
Hi John Miele # 31; unfortunately you are right. Strange thing: the Chinese tries now to file a case against me: threads… I am looking forward to this case, because we have plenty of witnesses, who are willing to testify WHO THREATS WHOM…
Hi Joe Parisi #32: no talks before. On June 25 we got a barangay invitation for the 3rd of July. On June 26 at 8 am the 'new owner' started the incident…
HI TYLEEN, thank you for your generosity – and as Bob said: hopefully it wouldn't come to that. Anyway thanks a lot and god reward you
To me this is avery clear situation.
the new owner has already consulted and arranged for this entire scenario with the citychall people before the fence was set up.
there is no escaping it.
either you klaus pay for the road right of way, or you will need to fight this in the court for next two years.
the second option is can you afford to do that? no house etc. for two years?
another is you will have to sell the house, probably to the new owner at 50% of its value.
This is a high level scam being played on you.
this is so bad. so helpless. Philippines is still developing world in terms of economics, but in scams like this, not even america can play it.
Your appeals to the cityhall will ultimately fall on deaf ears as they have no incentive to help you. but you can bet some will benefit from the cash you will give out to buy the access or the discount you will give in selling the house.
Bob said are there liars here in philippines. I said yes, definitely more than America. Just like there is much more scam here than america.
I invite those foreigners who visit this blog to ask yourselves, when you are living in your home country, do you always think about how you can protect yourself from scams? And always worried about being scammed? i dont think so. This is a sad truth about our current sad state in philippines right now.
I am sorry for being so negative when you are suffering. I feel so bad for you and so ashamed at my country
Klaus:
A suggestion… If he is Chinese, married to a Filipina, then he should have the same status as you… See if you can cause him some immigration problems!
Hi John # 37, thanks for you kind words. Of course, also MY mother, who will turn to 85 next month is suffering and very weak. Actually she came here together with my wife and me to find a better life after some very struggles in Germany. Details might be off-topic. We are all sad about my mother-in-law's stroke and some other incidents happening in our "jailed compound"… Anyway , thank you JOHN. We love you too.
Hi to Ron and Brian, thank you also for your help. But as stated before: we hope it will not end like this. of course, we all got shocked, when the very helpful and concerned attorney named the prize for his first action. i thanked him and my wife and i left his office…
Hi Gary #41: I strongly agree with you. Can you imagine that I still love the Philippines and I like to stay the rest of my life here…???
Hi Richard #42: And to be honest – you are also so very right…
Hi John Miele #43: re your donation THANKS. Please read the former comments. If nothing helps, I would accept your offer. You can email at any time by clicking CONTACT KLAUS. Thanks and God bless!!
Klaus, is your wife german? if that;s the case, the land is leased?
Hi ProudPinoy jr. # 44: with tears in our eyes: Maraming maraming salamat po. You are one of those Pinoys and Pinays I started admiring many years ago. And every one of you might excuse my emotional comments on Bob's site… god bless you all!!!
Hi Karen # 49: thanks a lot for your concern. God bless you and you family.
This is unfortunatley an event that repeats itself much too often here. I know of another case where a known criminal wanted by the police manged to successfully block off an entire municipal road to a Australiians beach resort. I think it was on Bohol. As foreigners we are helpless to fight many of the things that we face here and thankfully there is someone like you Bob that can bring these things to light. Perhaps you as a respected coerson can start some kind of committee to stand for foreigner's rights in Davao.
Sorry that was meant to be PERSON not coerson. Need to start using my spell checker.
Wow,
This has me perplexed..especially as to why there are armed guards protecting that area to keep him out and not have portion of fence taken down to access his driveway right of way.
Well, anyways, I wish him the best of luck…and hope his family members are doing well now….
Take care,
Danny
HI DANNY, thanks for stopping by and for your comment. Yeah, that's what we also thinking BUT
THIS IS THE LATEST AFTER TODAY'S HEARING:
The new owner rejected again to give free access to our property. Even asked my the Persiding Officer to give access in emergency etc. he said NO. He offered us to shoulder all expenses to open our backyard. No comments… The City Councel of Davao will go on and rush in publishing the findings. Next hearing: this coming Friday 2 p.m.
I like again to thank Bob to give me the space on his site. I think, it's a very good example, how life can be and how to survive. Again also my deepest gratitude to all your comments and help. God bless us all!!!
on the comments by the 911 officer. i know klaus is dealing with so much already. but is there going to be a complaint regarding his behavior/comment?
or even at least a letter to the 911 director?
there is seems to be a cordial relationship between one expat group & the 911 office from the last visit (bob even posted an article about the visit). i am curious about this.
such comments have no business in what supposedly is a showcase organization by the city of davao.
Hi Bob- I do hope for all concerned a speedy resoloution can be found.
Regards.
Jim.
Hi Macky, actually I also belong to this ex pat group.Teaching German language in USEP doesn't allow me to join them anymore on Wednesdays.I am sure 911 is still doing a great job. Maybe me and my family was just unlucky that day…
Hi everybody – I just want to say that I won't be responding to invidual comments on this post from here on out. Klaus is here, and he has more first hand information than I do. What I know is limited. Also, I just came from the hospital, I've been having some problems with my wrist, as I noted here a few weeks ago. It has worsened, and I am going to cut back on my computer activities for the weekend because of this. Even when using voice recognition, some keyboard activity is required, and it is very painful for me right now. I will write more about my condition next week to keep you all informed, though. Don't be concerned about me, it is nothing that is dangerous or anything.
I will say to Klaus, though… you are welcome for the article. You have my backing on this, and I hope that all works out well for you.
Hi Ecstasy #57. Thanks for your kind words. Yeah, I really love the Philippines and embrace it as my second and last home…
Hi Khaye, my wife is german, but she bought that lot as Filipina.
Hi Richard Wickey (#85 and # 86): Thanks for your comment and your concern. Your idea is great – but it will be difficult to let it become true I think.
Hi Danny, the bodyguards tried to point their guns on my in laws when they tried to enter our compound to take care of my mother…
Him Jim (#90): Thank you very much…
Hi Bob, sad to hear it. We all here wish you a fast recovery and hopefully not a major health problem. Again thank you for backing Bob. god bless you and Feyma and your whole family… All the best for you…
Hi Bob / Klaus, I do not even pretend to understand the complexities of your situation, but I can only wish you the best and hope that justice shall prevail.
"another is you will have to sell the house, probably to the new owner at 50% of its value."
I'd personally rather burn my place than sell it to a thief. The fact he is a Chinese/Pinoy says alot…no wonder thier targets for abduction come election season. NOT TO SAY ALL ARE LIKE THIS but my first hand experince is many of them act like truculent rulers of thier little fifedoms treating anyone less fortunate as endentured servants.
For those not familiar with the RP the chinese pinoys are descendants of the chinese whom are born in the RP, I would'nt say they economically run the RP but they certainly own many many of the businesses.
Derby…I'm with you on your comment..give me a 223 with a scope and I'd be tempted to head shot the SOB. Even if Klaus wins the battle he will still face a war as long as he is neighbor.
Time to buy a 500watt stereo system , pick up some fine Rap CD's and put the system to 24/7 use !!!
Sorry everyone…for my radical ways but arrogance is the one personality trait I abhor.
Klaus
IMO the person who was behind building that fence needs a very strong message sent to him. The only way that fence will come down is if he feels his personal safety is at risk. Sure, you can play the legal game for a while, but if that does not work you may have to fight fire with fire. You have to mak him think that it is just not worth stealing your home.
i would not use force or threat of force.
This is a monster who did this. This kind of thing a person can't do for the first time. THis is an experienced theif and a violent person. I am sure the guards are his trusted hands and they have killed people before.
There is really only two things to do. one sell the property at dirt cheap price, or move out and live somewhere else, and wait out 2 years for the legal process to complete. If it were me, and i had enough funds to do it, i would wait it out. after all, to sell at a significant loss is not only costly, but its emotionally damaging. I hope you have funds to see this through.
Also sad is i am sure that no one in the neighborhood will volunteer to testify or help klaus becase they are cowards. Most are cowards so much so that even if they know your maid is a thief, they will not tell you about it until after they are fired and gone, then they will tell you how bad the maid was. They just don't want to get mixed up in trouble and don't want to stick their necks out. I hate this mentality. I am sorry, but I don't know what is happening to philippines. there is no hope. I feel helpless. my husband and i are thinking everyday whether or not we should leave philippines. its so hard to leave because who will buy our house? waht about all the things we bought? we will lose half of our money just to move out. This is a terrible thing. at least we dont have bad neighbor yet.
But how about klaus? I feel so bad for him and his family.
I usually find out that those foreigners who speak positively about philippines have not been living in philippines a long time. those that have, they think almost everyday, tormented by thoughts whether they made the right decision to live here or not, or whether they will be trapped here after wasting all the money here.
Philippines is not a paradise. Tourists have no idea. Only the hardened few can live here.
the wheels are slow moving there but I think they will come to help youi in the end. Moving in a wild or rash manor is not the answer. You seem to have a good head on your shoulders and are following the right direction. You are there and we are here. We can only give your verbal support and prayers. I have a lot of confidence in the People in the Philippines and their institutions. They may move slow but they do move. P.s my relatives left Germany in the middle of the night to avoid an unjust war in the 1800s. My great great great great unlce deserted from the prusian army. Best to you and your family. I read your blogs with great intrest. We are about the same age.
I am truly sorry to hear such a sad story. I hope and pray that a speedy resolution can come about. Personally, when my life, liberty and property are put in jepordy such person or group I would be tempted to use my resources and respond in an extra-judicial manner even though I abhor dealing with hiring those types of people. The lack of property rights in the Philippines is why I would never invest anywhere there.
The older I get, the more I have come to realize, that some people are alive only because its against the law to kill them.
Since there are older and sick people living in the house then authorities should respond with an immediate action. If they don't then it's just another case that people with money can override the law any time they want in P.
Personally I wouldn't invest any money in a Country like that.
Just hope that Klaus will be able to live there. It's been his Country for so many years. Talk about anything certain there…
hmmm – wonder why a GREAT number of people are losing their homes in USA
Because they bought more house than they could afford and the economy has now softened…how is this like the situation Klaus is facing?
I agree it's got nothing to do with Klaus. Just making a point that some of the replies here are getting out of hand and off topic. Some generalizations are made which is unfair … Klaus has chosen to live here, and we all should respect that and give him moral support, not make him guilty, or worst fear for choosing to live here.
Klaus, I feel for you and your family. You are here and have chosen to live here and I am sorry that you have to go through this. I know a lot of German friends who have chosen not to live in Germany for various reason 😀 80 million people and overcrowded, polluted … etc.
Hi to Bob and to all of you, especially those, who continue sending comments here.
Thanks Anthony; it's really hard to understand.
Thanks Brian: strong words. I just leave your comment without mine. Of course, we will not sell our (four) houses or move to another place. I accept what you are saying Brian. And, btw, good idea with the stereo system… 😉
Hi Joe (#99), thanks again: you can be sure, that we started a lot of things simultanousely. i received tons of emails during the last 24 hours from people, who didn't like to comment, but offer help and support in their different and special ways. Please bear, that I can't publish details…
Hi Khaye, thanks again: unfortunately many people think like you. I still embrace the Philippines as my second and last home, because I still believe in some authorities, who are backing me and my family. And, I believe in God and prayer… I received a very personal email from people in Cebu, offering a mass for me and my family…
Hi Rob S, thanks too, yeah, I also heard this from a lot of ex pats too.
Hi Hudson, thanks. Sad to say, but you are true…
Hi Ted, thanks for your heartily comment. Observing "some actions" of the City Council give us a big hope. As I said: no details can be mentioned here.
Hi Ellen and Richard, thank you again for sharing your comments with all of us… god bless.
Hi Don, thanks a lot for your kind words and prayers as well as your support. Interesting, what you are telling us about your family. Wow, back in the 1800s… Yeah, I still believe in the Philippines and its institutions.. THANKS A AGAIN and keep safe don
Klaus,
Sorry to hear about this story. Take the high road, I'm sure this will be worked out shortly. Once enough of the government people hear of this, they will need to act to make this right. Let me know if I can help.
Hi Kevin, thanks a lot. Yeah, I am taking the high road, as you said. Not only one government people knows about it meanwhile. Thank you for your support. I appreciate it very much.
But you have no choice but to take the high road. Nothing else can be used by you as a foreigner.
I suggest you don't act impatient and desperate. More you do, nastier the new owner will get. Act like you have all the time in the world, and that you have money to ride out the protracted legal battle. then the new owner will soon come to you asking to settle on something. if its ok by you, go take the offer, if not, continue the battle. in the end, the ruling will be in your favor, and the new owner knows it, so all he has now is to make you desperate enough to do something rash. so dont do it.
i jsut hope you have enough money to ride this out.
i bet you that new owner reads this blog and this article. let him know here that youare not desperate and will not be bullied and will ride out this battle.
and immediately file a countersuit for damages. So when this ride is over, the new owner knows he will have to pay for damages as well, so let him feel the heat also.
khaye….
What do mean "new owner??? If I steal something at gunpoint am I to be considered the new owner? If the dirt bag whol stole Klaus home has very deep pockets how can klaus expect to beat him in a long legal battle? No, I think the threat of serious bodily harm is what is needed here.
Hi Klaus
I can commiserate with your present difficulties now but as a davawenyo and a filipino, I can't form an opinion at all as the details you gave here is very scant. My father is a lawyer and i'm quite famiiar with such cases like this and I don't think the fil-chinese guy would have the audacity of putting up that fence if he knows he's on the losing end. It's not about 'whom-you-know' all the time there at all because if the law is behind you legally, no matter what, even if the guy has all the clout and the money, I don't think he can keep up with it all the time and get away with it.
Just find a good lawyer who doesn't charge an arm and a leg, there's quite a lot of them there in Davao City.
Such brave words some people here spews out also but I can understand that, I would be enraged too but as I know how it works in my country, i'm having an open mind here.
I used to comment here before but im just a lurker now and that other 'Rey' who commented before me at the top is not me. I'm not sure if Bob still remembers me along with Angie and Teng and others.
So please people, i'm imploring you to at least just temper it a little and not bash my country in such manner when we don't even know what the real score is yet.
I mean by new owner the owner of the lot in front of klaus haws.
If your father is attorney in philippines, you should know that many if not most lawsuits hang on thin law. There is so much law in philippines, but there are also so many conflicting laws. Virtually anyone can sue anyone for anything and at anytime. this is not exaggeration.
I am sure the new owner has a some sort of legal rationale for the fence. and that small shred will allow that bad person to torture klaus for the next two years. The only reason being extort klaus for the road right of way, or buying kalus haws on the cheap.
Klaus needs to obtain TRO. And sit back and try to endure the ride.
I am sorry but this is a lose lose situation. It would be a nightmare for me to have a monster liek that for neighbor.
Hi Klaus,
I'm so sorry to hear about this. It is very unfortunate. You did the right thing by bringing this to the attention of the city officials and the media. I just hope that this gets resolved ASAP.
Stay calm and know that you have friends who are helping you go through this difficult time. This will get resolved the Philippine way. In the end, it will all work out. Take care and please tell Rose and the rest of the family to do the same.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hi Rey – It's been a long time since we heard from you, but indeed I still remember you. I hope you are doing well.
@khaye,
Yeah we do have many laws but you're indeed exaggerating. Only moneyed people can virtually sue anyone at anytime for anything in the Philippines as we have patterned our laws with the US. Fortunately or unfortunateley , I haven't heard yet of anyone suing Jolibee for having a slippery floor or even in that case where a lady fall off from an escalator inside a mall as negligence on the part of the owners.
Even though if you have the money to sue anyone, it's just not worth the headaches and time wasted attending to such lawsuit as we know civil cases there drags for years and years. Only the lawyers make money here, not the one suing even if he wins and we're not counting the bile and hatred he'll get from the family members and friends.
Back to Klaus case, what this fil-chinese guy has done may be despicable but what i'm really wondering about is on what legal grounds can he put up a fence blocking Klaus road right of way. I doubt he doesn't have any even if he's influential there in Davao as it's so passe now there in Davao bullying someone expecially Klaus whom I think has more influence than me there. Judging from his writeups here, I know Klaus is a good guy that i'm surprised somebody there would do something like this to him.
I do hope this case gets resolved amicably and reasonably by both parties.
@Bob, Thanks, i'm fine as it is and i'm still holding on to that coffee you promised… 😀
I think the new owners thats suing klaus is rich. So he can sue anytime anywhere for any reason.
No one sues jollybees because jollybees is not klaus. Klaus is nowhere near powerful as jollybees. If there was jollybees behind the new owners house, then i am certain there will be no fence.
I doubt the case will be resolved amicably. I base my doubt on the fact that the fellow who had the fence built posted armed guards behind it. That certainly isn't what I would do if I intended to resolve a dispute amicably.
Hi Joe Parisi – I think you will be resolved. Amicably? I doubt it. And that, will probably mean that other things go on for years.
Hi Bob,
I didn't understand your post. Are you saying that you don't think Klaus's situation can not be resolved amicably, and there will be legal matters going on for years?
Thanks
Sorry..mistyped last post..
Hi Bob,
I didn’t understand your post. Are you saying that you don’t think Klaus’s situation can be resolved amicably, and there will be legal matters going on for years?
Thanks
Hi Joe Parisi – what I'm saying is, the situation will be settled. It won't be settled in an amicable way, though. It will be settled in court, not by an agreement between the parties. When this happens, it may lead to years of additional actions by one party or the other, not an amicable relationship.
Hi to Bob, Khaye, Joe, Tina, Rey and all the others: Thank you again for your concern, for your suggestions, for your comments and for your prayers. I don't know if I have big influences here in Davao City. I think SOME, that's why some officials act really in a rush. I also go an additional high rank way. "Moral damages"? Sure. I can wait. Again I can't tell details. Yeah, there are still attorneys, who don't charge an arm and a leg. Those, who did, can be sure, that I will never recommend them any more. Fact is: a Provincial Road has been titled several times since 1996 IN FRONT OUR MAIN ENTRANCE. Our land title is the only one registered also in Quezon City. All city maps show our property since 1952 bordered by a 15 meters wide Provincial Road. Btw, it's also a very different thing, if the City Government "digs", instead an attorney, who likes to charge hundreds of thousands for a T.R.O., which doesn't solve the main problem. We sit back and relax, pray and are very hopeful for an amicable solution.
Hi Bob, of course not for amicable friendship. Btw; I hope your health problem is going to be solved…Take care… 😉
Hi Klaus. I hope the German consulate has been informed of the debacle. It is an embarrassment for the Mayor of Davao to let your home effectively be barricaded on his watch. While I fully understand the city and it's Mayor in particular is always looking for inward investment from overseas companies etc his lack of leadership at this time of down right criminality is more reflective of a lawless state than an emerging democracy. At this time we consider Davao closed for business.
But Davao is one of the better cities in terms of strictness because of the mayor. If you consider davao closed for busness, then the entire philippines shoudl be considered locked and closed!
Will injection of cortisone-type medicine help? My mother went through surgery twice for two fingers that were hurting – pain was around the base of the finger. There is an ortho surgeon who comes every quarter from the USA. He does several surgeries here, mostly knee replacements. He replaced both my father's knees (in one shot) and he was already 93 years old!! Very good doctor, and if you want his name, just email me. I may find out when his next schedule is for Davao.
Hope some relief is out there for you, Ellen
sorry, posted previous message to the wrong thread. can you transfer this or should I make another one?
Ellen
Hi James – I think you've got a good idea there, as a matter of fact it's something I had thought of previously myself.
Hi Ellen – no problem about posting to the wrong thread, we'll just leave it as it is though. Unfortunately, cortisone shots actually don't help the condition that I have, in fact, they make it worse.
Hi James, the Embassy is informed, because LiP is going to be click and read always… Khaye is right: Davao is still one of the most livable cities BECAUSE of our good mayor. Right now GMA-TV is again on the way to our place… I will let you all know in near future about everything in my blog… 😉
Hi Klaus – my thoughts are with you also.. it's good to hear that you have the TV reporters on the way. Several times I've found that when dealing with recalcitrant companies or govt. officials, public embarrassment/humiliation is the most effective weapon. Given the importance of 'saving face' in the RP, I'm sure it would be possible to use this to your advantage. If you can arrange for this incident to get some publicity overseas as well, it would apply even more pressure on those concerned to see justice done…
Hi Garryck – hopefully, and into this will come soon.
We all agree the present Mayor has been very good for Davao. However the wrong signal is being sent out to criminals by the inaction of his office in allowing a house/s to be barricaded(effectively kidnapped) from it's owner with out due legal course.
I feel this has happened as it was presumed you were a soft target considering you were a successful foreigner. I hope the Mayor intervenes soon and shows the same protection to you that we afford to the many filipinos who come to live in our country. Good luck and we will keep monitoring this until a successful outcome is had.
Hi James – good thoughts there James, thanks for stopping by.
Hi Garryck, also from me a big THANKS for your comment and your heartily concern. Check out my next post 'life goes on…'. Yeah, the tv reporter screened a several minutes long special report abut our case. They have been asked to do it asap – "by the City Council" 🙄 🙄 … Being an active journalist since many years I know "about the power of media".
Hi James, the Mayor of Davao knows very well my problem. He also knows me from several events, when we met. I even mentioned him several times when I still got my regular column in a daily from Davao City. "The wrong signals" are coming from government departments such as the City Engineers Office: Issuing a fence permit "without viewing and investigating the area" and after submitting 'wrong location documents' by 'the new lot owner"… Thanks JAMES for stopping by…