The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) kicked off yesterday its clearing operations against illegal vendors and illegal terminals along Roxas Boulevard in Baclaran area upon the directive of President Duterte.
MMDA officer-in-charge Tim Orbos led the 300 personnel in the peaceful removal of road obstructions and illegal structures that have occupied Roxas Boulevard service road.
“We did not demolish but just put order here because this is a directive of the President. We have talked to the vendors to put their ranks in order so motorists will be able to use at least four lanes of the service road,” said Orbos.
Initially, the MMDA cleared about 800 meters of the service road from the corner of Edsa to Rivera Street.
Several public utility vehicles that continued to line up in their usual terminals were also towed away and brought to impounding site. Obstructions like security outposts, food stalls were also torn down.
“PUVs are not supposed to hold terminals here but in consideration we will put up loading and unloading areas to allow drivers to pick and drop passengers,” said Orbos.
For a day, the MMDA claimed success in their operation. Motorists were able to pass seven to nine lanes.
Orbos said they have earned the cooperation of local officials of Paranaque and Pasay cities to help them carry out the mission of the President.
Also, Orbos said they put up two outposts with personnel to ensure roadways are free of obstructions.
As part of their traffic management plan, Orbos said they will designate lanes for parking, loading and unloading of passenger jeepneys and demarcation lines where vendors with business permits from the local governments will be permitted. (Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren)