Isko warns barangay officials tagged in parking racket

MANILA, Philippines — Incoming Manila Mayor Isko Moreno yesterday warned barangay chairmen of arrest if they are found to be involved in the illegal parking extortion racket.

During the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, Moreno said barangay leaders and traffic enforcers are earning millions of pesos yearly from the scheme as well as from illegal terminals of UV Express and jeepneys.

He said barangay officials in cahoots with traffic enforcers illegally collect P1,000 from each truck owner for parking along Road 10, Baseco, Binondo and other areas in the city.

Moreno advised barangay chairmen, especially in Baseco and Binondo to shape up and clear the roads in their jurisdiction.

He identified some of the barangay officials as Odeth Bautista of Del Pan and Yvonne Laganoyo of Sto. Cristo in Binondo.

“Illegal parking in the city will not thrive if there is no kotong,” Moreno said.

He said he would ask the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to cancel the franchises of public utility vehicles maintaining illegal terminals in Lawton, Intramuros and other parts of Manila.