Atienza warns persistent truckers

Manila Mayor Lito Atienza has warned stubborn cargo truck drivers against using the stretch of Roxas Boulevard or face arrest and seizure of their goods.

Atienza said the measure was meant to protect the boulevard from destruction caused by the heavy cargo trucks.

The mayor also ordered Traffic Enforcement Office chief Superintendent Gil de Castro to strictly implement the ordinance that bans cargo trucks from using Roxas Boulevard.

"This is a stern warning to cargo truck drivers that they would be arrested should they insist on passing through Roxas Boulevard," Atienza said.

The mayor issued the directive following reports that some drivers of cargo trucks defy the ban, with some even enjoying protection from policemen, who moonlight as their escorts.

"These police escorts give courage to truck drivers to violate the law," said Atienza, recalling an instance when he personally accosted a violator on the boulevard. He said the driver pointed to his motorcycle-riding police escort when asked to explain.

The mayor noted that the escort immediately left the area upon sensing his presence.

Atienza also directed Western Police District director Senior Superintendent Pedro Bulaong to stop policemen from providing "protection and security" to erring cargo trucks. – Cecille Suerte Felipe