Isetann mall faces possible closure due to lack of permit, says Mayor Isko

For lack of business permit, one of Manila's oldest shopping malls, Isetann in Recto, is facing a possible shutdown,  Mayor Isko Moreno said.  

In an interview with Super Radyo dzBB, Moreno said he has asked the Isetann management to explain the lack of permit.

"Hindi namin papayagan dahil kung hindi kayo magtitino at hindi kayo makikiayon sa pamamalakad ng pamahalaang lungsod, hindi rin magtitino ang ating pamayanan," Moreno said.

Moreno clarified that this would apply to every mall in Manila which lacked a permit.

JUST IN: Isetann Mall sa Recto, Maynila, posibleng maipasara dahil sa walang business permit — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. pic.twitter.com/FyRQNwqN4j

— DZBB Super Radyo (@dzbb) October 8, 2019

Moreno said the city government would also start banning  the selling of second-hand mobile phones.

He issued a challenge to people saying there is still no law or ordinance prohibiting the selling of second-hand phones.

"Eh di try us. Wala namang problema eh. Ibabalik ko rin naman doon yung Sec. 16 under the Local Government Code, the General Welfare Law. If we give you, a [permit] of business, we can take it away," Moreno said.

Moreno also warned the public against buying used mobile phones, which turn out to be stolen units.

The management of Isetann mall  expressed its "unwavering support" for the Manila City government, following Moreno's declaration that he would close down the establishment.

"We have written the City government today that in keeping with the instructions of the Honorable City Mayor, the sale of second-hand phones will no longer be allowed here at the Isetann Cinerama effective immediately," the management said in an emailed statement. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LDF, GMA News