Rama washes hands off widening project of DPWH

CEBU, Philippines – Because the project is seen to benefit the majority, Mayor Michael Rama will not interfere with the decision of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to widen Arellano Boulevard even if it will affect some vendors.

Councilor Raul Alcoseba who presided over the meeting of the Cebu City Market Authority yesterday decided to leave the matter to Rama and DPWH, but the mayor washed his hands off the issue.

The DPWH did not heed the invitation of the market authority to attend the regular meeting yesterday, but Tinago Barangay Captain Domingo Lopez appeared and reiterated the vendors' plea to remain at their current location along Arellano Boulevard near V. Sotto Street.

"Ang maong mga tindera wala pa gani makabawi sa ilang gasto pagpatukod sa stalls human sila gi-demolish didto sa Pier 3," Lopez reasoned.

He reasoned further it was former mayor Tomas Osmeña himself who allowed the vendors to relocate to their present site. The 16 stall owners used to occupy the entrance of Pier 3 until port authorities demolished their stalls to give way for the construction of a walkway for passengers.

The market authority itself admitted it cannot heed the request of the vendors.

Rama, for his part, admired the DPWH decision, saying widening Arellano Boulevard is beneficial because it is considered the gate way to the city.

A DPWH official, meanwhile, blamed the city's urban poor consultant who suggested that the vendors rebuild their stalls at their present location. The consultant allegedly failed to coordinate with DPWH on the matter.

The members of the Port Area Street Vendors Association had already received notices from the DPWH informing them that their location shall be affected by the widening of Arellano Boulevard.

DPWH, nevertheless, expressed willingness to provide cash assistance to those who will be affected by the expansion project.

Arellano Boulevard used to be very wide but squatters living on both sides have encroached substantial portions of the road, which made it difficult for motorists to navigate the road. (FREEMAN)