MMDA hires ex-convicts for Tondominium project

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority hired “hoodlums” in Tondo to work as masons, pipemen and carpenters for the agency’s “Tondominium” housing project in Manila, MMDA general manager Robert Nacianceno said yesterday.

Nacianceno said the MMDA’s objective is to help ex-convicts in their quest for a new life. He said they will be given regular salaries and assigned in areas near their homes.

“This is what we call character change – instead of by standing, extort and harass people in their community. Now, they will definitely have their own sources of income through this project that will be their way of changing their lives,” Nacianceno said.

Earlier, MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando vowed to coordinate with Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim to improve, not only the houses of the people of Tondo, but their livelihood and environment as well.

He said their livelihood and housing projects for the poor will not stop in Tondo.

“Tondo will no longer be considered a dangerous place after our project. I am confident that capitalists will be encourage to do business in Tondo once everything is placed in order,” Fernando said. – Jose Rodel Clapano