Mobile barangay hall obstructs Paco road; MMDA orders relocation

A mobile barangay hall in Paco, Manila was ordered for relocation by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority - Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group on Thursday.

According to Barangay Chairman Erlinda Rosales, they already have a budget of P2.5 million to construct a permanent barangay hall made of concrete in a nearby location but several residents are opposing it.

A barangay hall occupies a road in Paco, Manila. Bernadette Reyes

Tension began to escalate when Aida Quintana, a resident of the barangay, meddled in the conversation between MMDA personal and Rosales.

To alleviate the tension, the barangay chairman from the adjacent barangay offered help.

"For the meantime meron kami vacant lot sa dulo para 'yun both parties lang mawalan ng tensyon," said barangay chairman Winnie Cruz. 

MMDA SCOG head Bong Nebrija said they found out about the said obstruction after a concerned citizen reported it to Hotline 8888.

He added that even in the absence of such a complaint, it is imperative to clear the sidewalks to help decongest traffic.

"This is an alternate route sa Onyx. Kung mabubulunan doon o magkaroon ng traffic congestion doon puwede ito as an alternate route," Nebrija added.

MMDA spokesperon Celine Pialago said they understand the mandate of the barangay to serve the public but nevertheless they should find a proper location for their barangay hall.

"Basta obstruction, ang mandate natin naka-obstruct kayo. Wala kayo sa sidewalk, wala kayo sa kalsada na hindi dapat pagparadahan," she said.

MMDA operatives also towed illegally parked vehicles in the area.

Establishments that occupied part of the sidewalk were ordered to clear the way to give way to pedestrians. —KG, GMA News