Aide says Lim's rivals behind 'trashy' tactics

MANILA, Philippines – An aide of Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim said yesterday the mayor’s rivals are allegedly behind the illegal dumping of garbage in several areas in the city.

In a statement, Secretary to the Mayor Rafaelito Garayblas said Lim’s rivals are employing these “dirty tactics” to discredit the mayor, who is running for re-election.

“Based on numerous complaints and previous incidents, the illegal disposal of garbage in different districts in Manila is obviously a grand design of Lim’s political rivals to make it appear that the city is dirty under his helm,” Garayblas said.

He said that one such incident occurred on March 30, Salvador Galiste was caught unloading garbage from a dump truck in front of the Intramuros Golf Course. His two companions escaped.

Galiste told police he was ordered to do so by his employer, Wilfredo Patdu.

Police said the truck was brought to the city’s impounding area and Galiste was charged with violation of Presidential Decree 825 or anti-littering law.

Garayblas urged residents to immediately report illegal dumping of garbage in their area.

The camp of Lito Atienza, Lim’s main rival for the city’s top post, denied Garayblas’ allegations.

“It’s an obvious lie!” campaign manager Ali Atienza told The STAR in a telephone interview. “These statements merely intend to malign the reputation (of my father).”