Heavy rains hamper demolition at Pier 3

Yesterday’s heavy rains hampered the clearing operation along V. Sotto Extension in Pier 3 with only eight of 24 stalls demolished by a team from the Cebu Port Authority.

Cebu City urban poor consultant Gerry Marquez said the clearing operation will resume today, as they have scheduled to finish the demolition for two days. The illegally constructed stalls are being occupied by members of the Cebu Port Vendors Association.   

The vendors need not worry, Marquez said, because a relocation site at the corner of Arellano Boulevard and V. Sotto Street is now being cleared for the displaced vendors to occupy.

The site measures 115 meters and can occupy 24 stalls, which will be put up by Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines, Inc. Barangay Tinago will reportedly shoulder other improvements such as a concrete pavement, proper drainage, comfort rooms and lampposts.

“It will soon be a tourist attraction,” Marquez said.

CPA was forced to demolish the vending stalls along V. Sotto Extension because they have hampered the easy flow of passengers to and from the port.

Of the 24 illegal structures, four are ticketing offices of different shipping companies which, Marquez said, have volunteered to tear down their own structures. – Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/JMO