Bayani Fernando hails Munti, Pateros as vendor-free

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando hailed yesterday Muntinlupa City, Pateros, and two other cities for being "sidewalk vendor-free."

In his weekly radio program, Fernando commended Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi and Pateros Mayor Rosendo Capco for doing their share in cleaning up their respective areas.

Fernando noted that Fresnedi had set up an area at the Alabang Interchange for illegal vendors to use so they will no longer sell their wares on the sidewalks. Capco, on the other hand, has been working hard to remove obstructions in his small town, he said.

"Now Pateros will not only be known for balut but also for having a mayor like Mr. Capco," Fernando said.

Fernando failed to mention the two other cities that are now free of sidewalk vendors. But speaking on his behalf, MMDA Undersecretary Cesar Lacuna said Navotas is one of these places.

"In fairness to all mayors, it is very obvious that little by little they are clearing their sidewalks," Lacuna said. "We have seen significant changes in Muntinlupa, Pateros, Navotas and in some parts of Mandaluyong and Pasig."

Lacuna added that each mayor has his "own way of doing things, they have their own programs." Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, for example, has started his own organized vending program in the city.

Quezon City also has created its own task force to clean the sidewalks, Lacuna said.

Lacuna pointed out, though, that Quezon City and Manila have to contend with their huge land areas which could make the clearing of the sidewalks more difficult.