Manila shuts down mall

MANILA, Philippines — Mayor Isko Moreno yesterday led the closure of Isetann mall along Recto Avenue in Manila for allegedly selling stolen cell phones and operating without a business permit.

Moreno, who put a “closed” sign at the mall’s main entrance, said the investigation of the alleged sale of stolen gadgets led to the discovery of other irregularities in the mall’s operations.

“You got our attention. I have told you. Can you imagine, a simple problem. This is a… simple compliance issue. This is what happens to you,” he said.

Moreno said Isetann also misdeclared vital information for claiming that the Isetann, one of Manila’s oldest malls, is only 1,000 square meters and only has 10 employees. 

“In the same manner, they’re not only a shopping mall. They’re also a lessor. Meaning they are renting out the building. Their lessor business has no permit,” he said.

Moreno added that only one out of the four cinemas in the mall has the necessary permits.

“It is saddening that big malls are not paying the right taxes. They cannot operate until they pay the right taxes and secure a business permit. They will not open until they comply with all the requirements for the issuance of permit,” Moreno said.