MMDA to revive sidewalk clearing drive next month

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will resume its sidewalk clearing operations (SCO) next month.

The agency is currently coordinating with local government units, police and even ambulant vendors in the metropolis to ensure the smooth and peaceful implementation of the campaign.

MMDA-SCO chief Bobby Esquivel said they are preparing for the full implementation of the program that was temporarily withdrawn due to strong opposition from various sectors.

"We are now talking to police for some assistance. Baclaran is the hardest," Esquivel said.

He said the SCO, being a law, would be implemented despite opposition from affected parties, usually Muslims who rely on sidewalk vending to make a living.

Esquivel clarified that they are only implementing the law and should not be assailed by the illegal vendors, who not only violate road right of way, but intellectual property rights, business and quality control standards since most of them sell pirated products.

He also stressed that problems during operations could be prevented if vendors agree to move their merchandise to properly designated areas and markets.

"To prevent conflict, we will be coordinating with the Office of Muslim Affairs so that our Muslim brothers will have a better understanding of our revived scheme," Esquivel said.

The SCO has also received criticisms from local executives in Metro Manila after several operations resulted in bloody, often fatal confrontations between MMDA enforcers and defiant vendors. — Edu Punay