BREDCO toll fee collection illegal: PRA

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines - The collection of toll fees on vehicles entering the port area at the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. (BREDCO) is illegal, according to the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).

PRA Legal Department head Johanna Gargantial said BREDCO cannot collect toll fees, without authority from the Bacolod city government and the PRA, who are both parties to a tripartite agreement on operations of the port.

BREDCO's collection of toll fees was raised by Councilor Al Victor Espino at a hearing conducted by the City Council committee on laws, ordinances and good government, chaired by Councilor Caesar Distrito.

City Assessor Maphilindo Polvora said any collection without authority from the city government, as in the case of BREDCO's, is considered illegal exaction, which is a criminal offense.

PRA assistant manager for reclamation Josefina Castro said the tripartite MOA between PRA, BREDCO and the city, did not mention toll fees, and they were not aware if BREDCO had obtained authority from other government agencies. - THE FREEMAN