Street Vendors Expresses Grief as MMDA Clears in Taguig’s C-5 Underpass
Some street vendors under the bridge along C-5 Road in Taguig were moved to tears when the MMDA cleared the area.
Metro Manila Development Authority confiscated some of the vendors’ belongings during the operation, leaving them upset. The vendors expressed their frustration, saying they were simply trying to earn a living honestly.
One elderly vendor lamented how this action made their already tough lives even harder. They emphasized they were trying to make ends meet and questioned why such measures were taken against them when they were not causing harm or disturbance.
“Ito ba pamasko niyo? Kami dalawang matanda, walang magpakain sa amin kaya ito nagpipilit kami sa bawal. Hindi naman kami nakakaistorbo eh… Bakit ganun? Tumulong kayo. Hindi niyo madadala sa langit ang trabaho niyo,” the vendor reiterated.
Another vendor shared their frustration, pointing out the government’s focus on cracking down on poor citizens trying to earn honestly, while there are other pressing issues that need attention.
The poor vendors stressed that working with dignity is all they want to do, but it feels as if they are being treated unfairly.
However, the MMDA explained that their action was part of enforcing regulations. They clarified that selling under the lay-bys is prohibited since these areas are designated for emergencies and shelter for riders during rain.
The agency assured the public that they are not anti-poor but must ensure the rules are followed.
Aside from clearing vendors, MMDA also issued tickets to vehicle owners who were illegally parked in the same area.
“We are not anti-poor, it’s just that we have to implement kung ano ang tama,” MMDA Special Operations Group Strike Force Officer-in-Charge Gabriel Go said.
While the intention to keep public spaces organized and safe is clear, the tension shows the struggle many Filipinos face as they balance following rules with the need to survive.
In a previous post, MMDA proposes early work hours to ease traffic congestion
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident:
