Erap leads Divisoria clearing operations

MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada yesterday led police and city hall personnel in dismantling makeshift stalls owned by vendors in Divisoria.

Around 2,000 vendors along Juan Luna, Soler, Dapitan street and Recto Avenue were affected by the clearing operations.

Estrada said they dismantled the illegal structures and other obstructions along the sidewalks to ease traffic congestion in Divisoria.

He said the vendors’ makeshift stalls caused monstrous traffic jams in Manila’s shopping district.

While admitting that it was difficult for him to deprive the vendors of their livelihood, Estrada said, “I am doing this for the welfare of the general public. Motorists and commuters have been complaining.”

“Roads are for vehicles and the people, not for vending. We have to follow the law,” he added.

The mayor said they gave the vendors a 15-day notice to vacate the areas not designated for vending prior to the clearing operations.

Estrada promised to look for a designated area for the affected vendors.

Estrada ordered a massive cleanup of Manila’s streets last week, affecting some 5,000 illegal vendors.