Sidewalk vendors accuse some SPEED personnel of extortion

CEBU, Philippines - Some members of the Squatters Prevention Encroachment Elimination Division are being accused of extorting money and food from sidewalk vendors in Cebu City.

The allegation is now being looked into by SPEED chief Noel Artes after he was informed about the complaint of some sidewalk vendors. Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who was told by The FREEMAN about the complaint, also assured that proper investigation will be conducted.

Some sidewalk vendors have complained to The FREEMAN about the alleged abuses committed by some SPEED personnel. One sidewalk vendor said these abusive members of the demolition team would demand protection money from them and asked food for free.

“Gagmay ra intawon kaayo mi’g maganansya sir uy unya moanhi sila mga pito ka tawo dayon mokaon sa among baligya nga walay bayad-bayad,” a sidewalk vendor told The FREEMAN.

Another vendor narrated that there were times that some members of SPEED demanded P50 to P100 as protection money. The amount will allegedly be given to City Hall officials for them to be allowed to continue vending on the sidewalk.

“Pero bisan og mihatag pa mi’g kwarta gidakop gihapon mi. Giingnan lang mi nga wala kuno’y personalan kay naa ang ilang hepe,” the vendor said.

The vendors requested anonymity for fear of reprisals from SPEED personnel but promised to cooperate in the investigation.

Artes promised to protect the complainants from his erring personnel.

“Akong ipasalig nga protehean nako ang maong vendor,” Artes said.

According to Artes, he will not protect any of his erring personnel. SPEED currently has 110 personnel that are divided into 10 teams. (FREEMAN)