MMDA warns vandals

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority warned that groups or individuals who paint structures along EDSA with graffiti will be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

MMDA General Manager Jaime Paz said that secret marshals clad in civilian clothes have been deployed along EDSA to apprehend the vandals. He was infuriated by the messages painted on the columns of the Metro Rail Transit-3 line along EDSA, particularly near the Tuason-Cubao area.

The columns were recently painted over by the MMDA as part of its beautification efforts along the major thoroughfare.

Paz revealed that the structures of the Light Rail Transit project along Aurora Boulevard were also painted by the MMDA even through the project has not yet been completed.

The MMDA took the initiative to paint the columns after noticing that the contractors did nothing to clean up their own structures.

Paz said that they have apprehended at least two persons writing on walls since the secret marshals were deployed.

He pointed out that the secret marshals are on the road 24 hours a day and that all violators would face imprisonment and be fined a substantial amount.

In addition to this, those apprehended would also be required to undergo community service for a certain period of time.

Paz said the community service includes cleaning the esteros and sweeping as well as painting the sidewalks and center islands along EDSA. – Marvin Sy