DOTr: Clear MRT-3 walkways of vendors

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) ordered Monday the removal of vendors from the pathways of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon  made the statement after his inspection at the connected Taft and EDSA Stations of the MRT-3 and Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) systems in Pasay City.

“Naiintindihan naman natin sila at nakakaawa rin dahil kailangan nilang maghanapbuhay, pero they cannot be here. Nagpapasikip sila sa mga pasahero at pedestrian, kawawa rin sila,” Dizon said.

(We understand them and we feel sorry for them because they need to make a living, but they cannot be here. The vendors are congesting the area, affecting the poor passengers and pedestrians.)

The DOTr said the department and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will work together in clearing operations in MRT-3 north and southbound walkways.

Aside from this, Dizon also called out a mall for allegedly charging vendors for their supposed rent at the MRT-3 southbound exit considering that the space is owned by the government.

Dizon said the charging the vendors is illegal.

GMA News Online has sought comment from the establishment but it has yet to provide a statement as of posting time. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News