Erap won’t allow cockpit in Manila

MANILA, Philippines - Reelectionist Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada yesterday said he would not allow the construction of cockpits in the city during his term.

Estrada belied the claim of his rival, former Manila mayor Alfredo Lim, that the city government plans to build a cockpit arena within the vicinity of the Manila Zoo.

“Mayor Estrada will never allow any person or entity to construct a cockpit in the city,” city administrator Jojo Alcovendaz said.

Alcovendaz made the statement in reaction to Lim’s posts on his Facebook page that Manila Zoo would be transformed into a gambling facility.

Alcovendaz clarified that the joint venture agreement referred to by Lim was for the modernization of the zoo.

City accountant Rosario Planas said the Manila City Council did not approve the draft proposal to build a cockpit arena at the two-hectare lot across the zoo.

James Albert Dichaves, head of the Manila Public Recreations Bureau, earlier said Estrada turned down the proposal for construction of a cockpit and gaming arena in the area.

“If ever, the city government will put up a sports complex in the area,” Dichaves said.