Hawkers clash with guards, cops in Rizal Park

MANILA, Philippines - Illegal vendors clashed yesterday with police officers and security guards who were ordered to evict them from Rizal Park.

Danilo Depositar, who leads a group of vendors plying their trade at the park, said they will not vacate the area even if there was a direct order to boot them out unless the National Parks and Development Committee (NPDC) gives them alternative livelihood.

He said NPDC director Juliet Villegas refused to hold a dialogue with them.

Manila Police District  Station 5 commander Superintendent Ferdinand Quirante said they were exercising maximum tolerance as the vendors refused to leave the park.

“We have orders to clear the area but we are also giving them (vendors) leeway to so we can solve this peacefully,” he said.

NPDC administrative officer Estrelita Laraya said vendors within and around the park were advised last December to stop selling their goods, in accordance with a new order by the Department of Tourism to ensure that Rizal Park is clean and attractive to tourists.